Anxiety as an emotional state can be very unpleasant and often involves physical (somatic) symptoms. Anxiety is our nervous system reacting to protect us from a (perceived) threat. When anxiety is triggered, we can experience everything from worrying thoughts, heart palpitations and stomach cramps to tingly fingers, shaking and hyperventilation. We all experience anxiety at some point in time. But when it gets excessive, too distressing or frequent and impacts on your day-to-day activities or relationships, it is worth seeking treatment.

Treatment for anxiety involves understanding triggers, learning strategies to calm your anxiety in the moment and testing out new ways of coping with anxious thoughts and how to cease counterproductive anxiety-driven behaviour, such as avoidance.

Depression is a state of low mood or loss of interest that lasts for over two weeks. Depression often comes with a change in sleeping patterns (sleeping more or less than normal) and appetite (loss of appetite or overeating). People who are depressed often feel guilty about things they have done or think they should have done. Anxiety and a withdrawal from social interaction and other valued activities is another common concern with depression.

Treatment for depression involves guidance about gradually returning to a more active life, finding positive routines and a balance between activities focused on achievement and pleasure. In addition, we often work on ways to deal with depressive thoughts and strengthening social relationships.