Anxiety and depression are common mental health conditions that affect millions of people worldwide. If you are struggling with anxiety or depression, it can be crushing. Dr. Kalmbacher understands how these serious issues can have a significant impact on relationships, family, work and physical health. She takes a comprehensive approach to develop an optimal treatment plan tailored to your individual needs. The steps include evaluation, testing, treatment and sometimes consulting with other healthcare professionals as part of your mental wellness team.

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Evaluating

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The evaluation for anxiety and depression typically involves a comprehensive assessment of your mental health history, current symptoms, and any underlying medical conditions or medications that may be contributing to your symptoms. The mental health professional may use various tools such as questionnaires, rating scales, and diagnostic interviews to evaluate your symptoms and determine a diagnosis.

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Testing

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Several tests are used to diagnose anxiety and depression. Some common tests include:

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1. Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item Scale (GAD-7): This questionnaire asks about symptoms of anxiety over the past two weeks and provides a score indicating the severity of anxiety symptoms.​

2. Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9): This questionnaire asks about symptoms of depression over the past two weeks and provides a score indicating the severity of depressive symptoms.

3. Beck Depression Inventory (BDI): This questionnaire asks about symptoms of depression and provides a score indicating the severity of depressive symptoms.

 

 

Treating

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Treatment for anxiety and depression often involves a multifaceted approach.

 

Medications, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can help alleviate symptoms.

 

Therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can help individuals identify and address negative thought patterns and develop coping strategies.

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IASIS Neurofeedback, is a type of neurofeedback therapy, that uses low-frequency sound to stimulate and and regulate brain activity. It is believed to improve neural function and reduce symptoms associated with Anxiety and Depression.  

 

Lifestyle changes, including regular exercise, healthy eating habits, and stress management techniques such as mindfulness meditation and deep breathing exercises can also play a significant role in help improving mental health.

 

Dr. Kalmbacher also recognizes the potential role of hormones in anxiety and depression. Imbalances in hormones such as cortisol, thyroid hormones, and sex hormones can contribute to the development of these mental health conditions. If necessary, Dr. Kalmbacher may recommend additional testing such as blood tests to assess hormone levels and incorporate hormone management into your treatment plan.
 

Here are the top 5 things you can do to begin managing anxiety and depression:

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1. Seek Professional Help: Seeking professional help from a Dr. Kalmbacher is the first step in managing anxiety and depression. Dr. Kalmbacher will help you develop a personalized treatment plan that includes therapy, medication, or a combination of both. If mental therapy is needed, Dr. Kalmbacher will coordinate with your psychologist or psychiatrist to ensure you are on the best possible path toward mental well being.

2. Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Mindfulness techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. These techniques can help you stay present in the moment and manage negative thoughts and feelings.

3. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: A healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep can help improve mental health. Exercise can help boost mood and reduce stress, while a healthy diet can provide essential nutrients to support brain function.

4. Connect with Others: Social support is important in managing anxiety and depression. Connecting with others through friends, family, support groups, or online communities can provide a sense of belonging and reduce feelings of isolation.

5. Manage Stress: Stress can exacerbate symptoms of anxiety and depression. Learning stress management techniques such as time management, problem- solving skills, and relaxation techniques can help reduce stress levels and improve overall mental health.

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Take the first step towards managing your anxiety and depression by making an appointment with Dr. Kalmbacher today. She will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and supports your journey to improved mental health.