Get answers to the most frequently asked questions about anxiety and depression.
If you’ve been diagnosed with anxiety or depression, or if you suspect that you might be dealing with either or both of these mental health conditions, you may be seeking answers to the many questions you have. If you have questions, our Austin, TX, psychiatrist Dr. David Flume and the team at Flume Psychiatry are always available to answer them.
Do I have anxiety?
Getting ready to speak in public or face danger is enough for anyone to feel anxious or to notice adrenaline pumping, but this is a fairly normal physiological response; however, if you find that your nervousness, anxiety and stress levels are impacting your day-to-day life, this could be signs of an anxiety disorder.
It’s a good idea to see a licensed clinician to find out if you could be dealing with an anxiety disorder. While you may turn to your general practitioner first for answers, it’s important that you find a specialist like our own Austin, TX, psychiatrist, who specializes in treating anxiety and depression.
Could I have depression?
While it’s normal for all of us to feel sad or hopeless from time to time, it’s when these symptoms are persistent and impact an individual’s everyday life that our Austin, TX, team needs to take a closer look. Loss of a job or a loved one, divorce and relationship issues can leave individuals feeling depressed and it’s important that you turn to our team if you have been experiencing any of these symptoms for two or more weeks,
- Changes in sleep habits (either sleeping too much or not sleeping at all)
- Trouble concentrating and thinking
- Loss of appetite
- Loss of interest in hobbies and activities you once loved
- Persistent feelings of hopelessness and sadness
- Irritability and frustration
- Lacking energy
- Anxiety or restlessness
- Feeling unworthy or guilty
- Fixating on past mistakes
- Trouble making decisions
- Suicidal thoughts
- Unexplained physical aches and pains
When should I see a psychiatrist?
If your symptoms are impacting your quality of life, wellbeing and relationships you owe it to yourself to speak with a licensed therapist who can help you determine the best treatment options and approach. Many individuals don’t seek treatment right away, but putting off treatment simply means suffering through symptoms needlessly. It’s important that you know what’s going on so you can get the relief you deserve.
Do I need medication?
Psychotherapy is one of the best ways to treat anxiety and depression and may be accompanied by medication. While not everyone will take medication to treat anxiety or depression, we know that medication can provide relief. Antidepressants, beta-blockers and benzodiazepines are commonly prescribed medications. Dr. Flume would be happy to discuss medication options with you during a consultation if you’re interested in learning more or think that medications might be able to help.
If you are concerned about your anxiety and depression and need to speak with our Austin, TX, psychiatrist Dr. Flume and his team, call Flume Psychiatry at (512) 329-5575.