nxiety and depression can strike at any time, making daily activities a challenge and reducing enjoyment of life. Fortunately, help is available. The sooner treatment is begun, the less likely these conditions are to cause devastating consequences.
When anxiety attacks
Women are more than two times as likely as men to experience anxiety disorders.
"There are a number of reasons for that," says Colleen Martin, a licensed clinical social worker with WellSpan Behavioral Health in Chambersburg. "Some of the cause is genetic--a susceptibility to anxiety can run in families." Another factor is the stress that women are under. "Many of us are trying to manage multiple roles," she explains. "We're juggling being wives, mothers, and full-time workers, while also caring for our parents and doing 'extracurricular' activities like going to book clubs."
While anxiety can occur at any point in a woman's life, it's especially likely after a trauma such as a car accident or abuse, or at milestones like the loss of a job or the death of a family member.
Women also are more likely to become anxious after having a child, says Martin. This tends to show itself as obsessive-compulsive disorder. "A woman might obsess over her baby," she explains. "Is he breathing? Is something wrong with him? And they won't rest because of it."
One of the most prevalent anxiety-related issues Martin sees is Generalized Anxiety Disorder, or GAD, which often is accompanied by depression. While panic attacks come and go, a person with GAD always has anxiety, which can center on anything from health to work. No matter what type of anxiety a patient has, treatments exist.
"Cognitive behavioral therapy, which involves examining your thoughts and how they lead to certain behaviors, is very helpful," says Martin. If a patient needs medication, Martin can refer her to a prescribing physician.
Insight into depression
Like anxiety, depression is often caused by the stress of filling multiple roles. "A lot of times, body image goes along with that," says Martin. "Society has a pretty strong image of what it thinks a woman should be. And if someone's not confident, she can feel like she's not good enough. That kind of thinking goes hand in hand with depression."
Financial stressors also can send patients into a spiral, as can a series of setbacks, such as the loss of a loved one followed by the loss of a job. Trauma can leave depression in its wake as well.
To diagnose depression, Martin looks for certain symptoms, including an increase or decrease in appetite and/or sleep, along with a feeling of hopelessness. "People's energy will be low and they will not want to do things they used to like to do," she explains. "Sometimes they'll have suicidal ideation, or a passive death wish--maybe not wanting to actually harm themselves, but thinking they'd rather be dead.
"Cognitive behavioral therapy is a go-to for treating depression, as is general talk therapy," says Martin. There are many avenues for treatment, including medication. "At some point in our lives, we all need help," says Martin. "Starting the process of getting help is sometimes the hardest part, but it's well worth it."
Self care
"Women are more likely to make sure everyone else's needs are met than they are to care for themselves," says Colleen Martin, a licensed clinical social worker with WellSpan Behavioral Health in Chambersburg. But showing yourself a little love, through steps like those below, can help stave off both anxiety and depression.
Find a hobby
"It's relaxing, and seeing your progress-- improvements in skill or in conditioning--will make you feel good about yourself," Martin says.
Get regular exercise
Aim for at least 20 to 30 minutes a day. "It's very beneficial for the brain and the body," Martin points out. Exercise releases endorphins, the body's natural "feel-good" chemicals. "Even better, exercise outside," she urges. "You're going to get some vitamin D, and low vitamin D levels have been linked to depression."
Drink adequate water and maintain healthy diet
As Martin notes, "If our basic needs aren't met, it's really hard to progress anywhere else."
Get enough sleep
Adults need roughly seven to nine hours per night. "Sleep is when our brains recoup and regenerate," Martin explains.
