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News | yesterday

Could your daily blahs be signaling something more?

Feeling persistently down or anxious? Learn how to recognize the signs of anxiety and depression and discover practical steps to seek support and improve your mental health.

Do the stresses of life sometimes spoil your day? We’ve all had bad days from time to time, especially during COVID. But five years later, if you still have frequent feelings of darkness and despair that interfere with how you handle daily activities, it may be time to seek support.  

“Persistent feelings of fear, dread or sadness that disrupt your daily life are not just passing moods. They could be signs of anxiety or depression,” says Dr. Sharon Browning, Atrium Health Primary Care Lake Park Family Medicine. “These conditions are serious and should not be ignored. If you notice these feelings impacting your ability to work, socialize or take care of yourself, reaching out for help is an important step toward good health.” 

In addition to persistent fear, anxiety may also carry physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat and restlessness. Depression, on the other hand, shows symptoms of debilitating sadness and loss of interest in activities.

 If you think you might need help, Browning suggests these first steps:  

  1. See your primary care physician: Your doctor may be able to provide you with a proper diagnosis and connect you to the resources you need. In many cases, your primary care physician can help you access virtual services that can help with behavioral health needs. 
  2. Track your mood: Keeping a mood journal can help you and your health care providers understand patterns and triggers in your mental health. Consider exploring free apps on your phone to make monitoring your mental health easier. Finding an app that works best for you can make a significant difference in managing your well-being.
  3. Join a support group: Finding a safe space to share your experiences and learn from others who are going through similar challenges can help alleviate feelings of isolation and provide comfort in knowing that you are not alone in your struggles. 
  4. Look for community and spiritual connections: Whether it’s through local clubs, religious organizations or volunteer opportunities, connecting with others can help you feel less isolated. 

If you or someone you know is in an emergency, call The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988, 800-273-TALK (8255) or call 911 immediately. 

Learn more about behavioral health services and resources at Atrium Health.