Depression is a common mental health concern and is often experienced in the context of significant losses, difficult adjustments and unforeseen challenges in our lives. A sad mood and feeling low can be part of normal reactions to life events, however, depressive episodes represent a more difficult experience for an individual. At times, there is no specific precipitant for depression, and it simply evolves without an apparent trigger which can leave people feeling perplexed and blaming themselves.

With an episode of depression people will have poor concentration, difficulty with making decisions, a persistently sad mood, low motivation, low energy, changes in appetite, as well feelings of low self-worth and guilt. These symptoms vary in terms of severity and do respond to a variety of treatment approaches which may involve medication, activation and behavioral strategies, in addition to cognitive and interpersonal interventions.

While depression is a recognizable mental health disorder, your experience of depression will be unique to you and your recovery should incorporate your preferences regarding a treatment approach.

At Westbridge, we will assist in assessing the severity of depression, work collaboratively with your physician if necessary and help you develop a personal wellness plan to alleviate the depressive symptoms and sustain good mental health.

Everyone experiences anxiety in their lives, and it is a normal response to new and different life events such as changing jobs, having a child, moving to a new city, or retiring. The feelings of dread, tension, butterflies in the stomach, restlessness and unease along with thoughts of worry and uncertainty are familiar to us when confronted with situations that require us to work, act, perform, or engage differently than usual. Typically, we adjust and these feelings of anxiety pass, however, anxiety can become quite intense and severe and cause difficulty with functioning in your everyday life.

Anxiety disorders involve symptoms experienced in the body such as a racing heart, muscle tension or stomach upset. Thoughts may contribute to the anxiety with exaggerated fears, obsessive worry or catastrophic thinking. Those feelings of dread and fear can become a persistent part of your life and very much interfere with your ability to work, enjoy others, care for your family or engage in leisure pursuits. It is not uncommon for people to turn to substances to find some relief from the intensity of anxiety symptoms. Perhaps you have experienced some situations that have left you more vulnerable to anxiety, such as traumatic incidents, racism, or excessive stress.

There are many strategies that help to manage anxiety symptoms including mindfulness, cognitive -behavioral strategies, setting boundaries and building self-esteem.

Meet with an experienced clinician who can help assess the anxiety symptoms you are experiencing and help you learn the tools you need to manage.