Mild Anxiety and Depression

Almost a quarter of women in America have struggled with an anxiety disorder, and one in ten have experienced depression. At Hormonal Harmony, based in Mystic, Connecticut, skilled nurse practitioner Kristen Stehle, APRN, offers telehealth appointments to treat mild anxiety and depression in women of all ages. If you’re looking to improve your mood and reduce symptoms that interfere with your daily life, you may benefit from several treatment options. Schedule an evaluation at Hormonal Harmony by phone or online today to learn more.

What is mild anxiety and depression?

You may have anxiety if you experience intense feelings of worry that persist for longer than six months. Potential anxiety triggers include life changes and stress-related situations around work, school, health, pregnancy, finances, or relationships.

If you have overwhelming feelings of sadness that last for longer than two weeks, you may be experiencing depression. The chronic disorder can affect you at any age and may come and go throughout your lifetime. 

Women are nearly twice as likely as men to have anxiety and depression. Changes in hormone levels during puberty, your period, menopause, pregnancy, after having a child, or experiencing a miscarriage may also trigger anxiety or depression.

How do I know if I have mild anxiety and depression?

Common mental and physical symptoms of anxiety include:

• Unusual feelings of apprehension or dread
• Irritability 
• Concentration issues 
• An increased heart rate
• Hyperventilation, sweating, or trembling
• Unexplained fatigue 
• Sleep problems 
• Upset stomach

Symptoms of depression include: 

• Chronic sadness or hopelessness 
• Feelings of guilt or self-blame 
• Inability to concentrate 
• Changes in sleeping patterns 
• Lack of motivation 
• Isolation 
• Avoidance of personal grooming
• Changes in weight
• Fatigue or muscle aches 

If your depression or anxiety is leading to thoughts of self-harm, call or text 988 — a suicide and crisis 24/7 lifeline. 

How do you treat mild anxiety and depression?

Before developing a treatment plan for you, Kristen performs a thorough evaluation to understand the root of your anxiety and depression. She may recommend a combination of treatments, including: 

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

It’s normal for women to experience depression or anxiety when going through stages of menopause. Hormone replacement therapy can help regulate mood and energy levels and alleviate minor anxiety and depression symptoms. 

You can receive HRT through patches, pills, implants, pellets, gels, vaginal rings, creams, or suppositories. 

Medication 

Antidepressants can alleviate anxiety and depression and improve your mood. Lexapro®, Zoloft®, and Prozac® are popular options.

Benzodiazepines, such as Xanax® and Valium,® may help with anxiety. These drugs can be addictive, so Kristen may only prescribe them for acute symptoms. 

Lifestyle changes 

Staying active and healthy can greatly improve anxiety and depression. Kristen may develop a unique fitness and nutritional plan for you to address any mental and/or physical concerns. She can also provide at-home stress management techniques. 

To begin your healing journey and learn more about mild anxiety and depression treatment, call Hormonal Harmony today or reach out online.