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Anxiety Disorders Depression Many people find their lives becoming increasingly restricted by panic and anxiety and many do develop depression in reaction to their anxiety disorder. This adds to feelings of helplessness and confusion, because no matter how hard they try, it appears that they cannot recover. Symptoms of depression can be similar to those of panic and anxiety and in the past, many people were being diagnosed as having depression, while their primary anxiety disorder remained undiagnosed and untreated. This can still sometimes occur. While it is important that the depression is treated, the underlying cause: the anxiety disorder also needs to be treated. If you have been diagnosed as having depression and you are concerned that your anxiety disorder has not been recognised, please speak to your doctor as soon as possible and ask for a referral to an anxiety disorder specialist. Many people with an anxiety disorder dislike taking medication, but it can be of assistance in treating depression and may ease some symptoms of panic and anxiety. While medication is not a 'cure', it can 'support' you while you learn to manage your anxiety disorder through cognitive therapy, and you can then work towards becoming free of your anxiety disorder, depression... and medication ! Some people can begin to develop suicidal thoughts as a consequence of their anxiety disorder and/or depression. Many people feel ashamed or embarrassed to tell anyone about these thoughts. There is nothing to be ashamed of, or embarrassed about. These thoughts are clearly showing the levels of distress the person is experiencing. If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide, please speak with someone close to you and seek help immediately from your family and/or your doctor, or psychiatrist, psychologist, or your local mental health service, hospital, or your local anxiety disorder organization or community health center. They will understand and will be able to assist you. See also referrals for Cognitive Behavioural Therapists  |
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Last modified: June 12, 2007