Co-Occurring Panic Disorder and Depression

Co-Occurring Panic Disorder and Depression Panic Disorder Related Conditions Print Co-Occurring Panic Disorder and Depression By Katharina Star, PhD facebook linkedin Katharina Star, PhD, is an expert on anxiety and panic disorder. Dr. Star is a professional counselor, and she is trained in creative art therapies and mindfulness. Learn about our editorial policy Katharina Star, PhD Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD on August 05, 2016 Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital. Learn about our Medical Review Board Steven Gans, MD Updated on October 10, 2019 Depression Overview Types Symptoms Causes & Risk Factors Diagnosis Treatment Coping ADA & Your Rights Depression in Kids Eri Tashiro / Getty Images People with anxiety-related conditions are often diagnosed with a co-occurring mood disorder. In particular, people with panic disorder are often at greater risk of developing clinical depression. Research has indicated that approximately half of those diagnosed with panic disorder will have at least one incidence of major depression in their lifetime. What Is Depression? Depression is not the same as occasionally feeling gloomy or disappointed. We all have times in our lives in which we feel down, such as after experiencing a loss or receiving bad news. Feeling blue about difficult life situations is not necessarily a sign of depression. It is necessary to seek out help if your feelings of sadness begin to negatively affect your overall functioning, such as interfering with your job, relationships, and other important areas of your life. Many times people with clinical depression are unable to identify what it is that is contributing to their depressed mood, but they are aware that it is a feeling that they cannot just snap out of. Depression is a diagnosable mental health disorder that is characterized by the following symptoms: A depressed mood most of the timeLoss of interest and satisfaction in activities previously enjoyedChange in appetite, often seen in weight gain or lossSleep disturbances, including insomnia and sleeping too muchPsychomotor changes, such as being noticeably restless or slowed downFrequent fatigue and loss of energyFeelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, and excessive guiltLack of concentration, trouble thinking, and difficulty making decisionsRepeated thoughts of death or suicide According to the DSM-IV-TR, at least five of these symptoms must be present within a two-week period of time. One of these symptoms has to be a depressed mood or loss of interest or pleasure, in order to be formally diagnosed with major depression. These symptoms must also represent a change in the person’s typical behaviors as indicated by self-report or observations by others who know the person, such as friends, family, and coworkers. DSM-5 Updates on Depression Depression is a treatable condition that can be managed through the help of your doctor. The most common forms of treatment include medication, psychotherapy or a combination of both. Antidepressants are the most frequently prescribed medication to treat depression. Known for their mood-enhancing properties, antidepressants have also been established to treat and reduce symptoms of panic disorder. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Depression and Panic Disorder Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that has found to be effective in the treatment of depression and panic disorder. CBT works by altering one’s negative thoughts and behaviors to reduce depressive and anxious symptoms and to improve overall functioning. A combination of CBT and medication is the typical treatment option choice for panic disorder and depression. It is possible to have panic disorder and a co-morbid diagnosis of clinical depression. These treatment options can address both conditions. What to Do If You Experience Symptoms If you suspect you are suffering from depression, talk to your doctor right away about the signs, symptoms, and treatment options for depression. If you are still unsure whether or not you have depression, take this confidential screening test. Getting Help If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide, seek help immediately by calling 911 or a toll-free suicide prevention hotline that can provide 24-hour assistance. If you are in the U.S., call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline: (800) SUICIDE (800-784-2433) or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: (800) 273-TALK (800-273-8255). The 9 Best Online Therapy Programs