Manage depression + anxiety
Depression and anxiety are different conditions, but they commonly occur together. They can also be treated in similar ways.
Feeling sad or blue now and then is normal. And, everyone feels anxious from time to time — it’s a common response to stressful situations. When prolonged, these feelings can affect you in several ways and impact your:
- Thoughts
- Mood
- Behaviors
- Physical well-being
Feelings of depression or anxiety that are severe or ongoing (typically for more than two weeks) can be a sign of an underlying mental health disorder. Anxiety may occur as a symptom of clinical (major) depression. It's also common to have depression that's triggered by an anxiety disorder, such as:
Many people have a diagnosis of both an anxiety disorder and clinical depression. Symptoms of both usually improve with talk therapy (counseling), medications, or both. Lifestyle changes, such as getting plenty of sleep, increasing social support, reducing stress, and getting regular exercise, also may help.*
To support your recovery, you can:
- Always take your medications as prescribed and talk with your care provider about any side effects
- Keep follow-up appointments and reschedule right away if an appointment has been cancelled
See some common questions and answers about antidepressant medications (PDF).
* Visit WebMD to learn more about anxiety, depression, talk therapy, medications, exercise, relaxations techniques, and more.
Additional Information
- Coping and self-management skills (PDF)
- Activation techniques (PDF)
- Mindfulness (PDF)
- Dealing with stress (PDF)
- Succeeding at work (PDF)
- Dealing with loss and grief (PDF)
Resources
If you need help finding a behavioral health therapist or psychiatrist, call the Member Services number on the back of your insurance card or use our online provider search.
Dean Health Plan's behavioral health case management program may be an option for you, as well. Enrollment is free and voluntary. Learn more about this service and sign up.
For more information about depression, available treatment options, and self-management tools, access our Brighter Days newsletters.