Anxiety and depression affect millions of people, impacting both mind and body. In a recent episode of The Dr. Terri Show, Dr. Terri discusses how these conditions show up in different ways, the root causes behind them, and what we can do to manage them. From hormone imbalances to lifestyle changes, Dr. Terri highlights key strategies for living well despite these challenges.
Symptoms of Anxiety
Anxiety is more than just excessive worry. It can show up as restlessness, muscle tension, or even physical pain. Dr. Terri notes that anxiety is a complex issue with multiple contributing factors, including hormonal imbalances:
“When our cortisol levels are constantly high it plays a role in our insulin levels which plays a role in weight so there’s just so many aspects you know to this conversation if we just take depression anxiety as kind of the center of this wheel all of these spokes that kind of spoke off of it and there’s a lot of things to consider.”
In particular, cortisol, the body’s stress hormone, drives many anxiety symptoms. “When cortisol stays elevated, it wreaks havoc on the brain and body,” Dr. Terri explains. As a result, individuals experience symptoms such as:
- Insomnia and poor sleep quality
- Racing heartbeats and difficulty breathing
- Muscle tension, headaches, and nausea
- Restlessness and constant fatigue
Dr. Terri emphasizes that recognizing these signs is the first step in managing anxiety effectively.
Can Anxiety Cause Chest Pain?
Yes, anxiety can cause chest pain, and it’s a symptom that often surprises people. Terri describes how the constant state of fight-or-flight response triggers physical symptoms that play a huge role in every body system. Tightness in the chest, rapid breathing, and palpitations can make someone feel as though something serious is happening.
Depression Symptoms
Depression, like anxiety, affects both mental and physical well-being. It often presents as fatigue or numbness rather than sadness, making it harder to identify. Dr. Terri notes that many people feel confused by their symptoms: “I hear women say, I just kind of have the blues, the blahs, I don’t really understand what’s wrong with me.'” The stigma around depression makes it even harder for people to seek help, with Dr. Terri pointing out that “only about 10% of women will bring this up to their healthcare provider.”
Common depression symptoms include:
- Persistent sadness or lack of interest in activities
- Fatigue, even after a full night’s sleep
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Trouble concentrating or making decisions
- Physical symptoms such as headaches or muscle pain
Can Depression Make You Tired?
If you’re feeling tired you may want to look into the medication you’re using as a long-term solution. Many of these medications can cause other problems. Dr. Terri explains, “side effects of these medications are vast. Energy, thinking, libido, weight…”
Additionally, Terri highlights the connection between depression, thyroid dysfunction, and low vitamin levels: “Low thyroid hormones can mimic depression, and vitamin D deficiency plays a big role in mood as well. “Optimizing these areas can improve energy levels and reduce depressive symptoms.
Will Anxiety Go Away?
We have become so used to using anxiety medications that are only stopgaps to our symptoms that we believe that our anxiety can only be managed and not fixed. The medications you take can be good, but you also want to take the extra step to fix the problem while managing the symptoms. Dr. Terri urges you, “Don’t abruptly stop them, don’t hear what I’m saying, and go oh I don’t need these anymore, and throw them out— you know or flush them down the toilet. That can cause a lot of problems, so you really want to work very closely with your healthcare provider if this is something that you feel like you want to fix and gradually get off some of these medications.”
Imbalances in hormones like testosterone and cortisol often play a role, and addressing these imbalances can make a significant difference.
Take Action: Heal from Anxiety and Depression with EVEXIAS Health Solutions
Anxiety and depression can feel overwhelming, but they are manageable with the right approach. Dr. Terri reminds us, “Medications are helpful tools, but they were never meant to be a long-term solution. They’re a Band-Aid while you figure out the root cause.”
At EVEXIAS Health Solutions, we offer personalized care that addresses the underlying causes of anxiety and depression. Whether it’s hormone optimization, lifestyle adjustments, or nutritional support, our team is here to help you feel like yourself again.
If anxiety or depression has been weighing you down, it’s time to take the first step toward healing. Schedule a consultation today and learn how EVEXIAS Health Solutions can help you restore balance and reclaim your well-being.
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Anxiety and depression are complex conditions, but they are treatable. Whether it’s through hormone optimization, therapy, or lifestyle changes, there’s always hope for a better future.
Visit EVEXIAS Health Solutions today to explore how our innovative treatments can help you overcome anxiety and depression. Your journey to better health starts here.
