Emotional Wellness
Mary Symmes is the founder of Self Investment Strategies and a life coach devoted to the empowerment of working women. Mary is also a clinical social worker in Alexandria, Va. Visit her Web site at SelfInvestmentStrategies.com

Treatment for Depression

Question: Lately I've been having what I think are panic attacks. Where for no apparent reason I feel anxious, start sweating, my heart races (symptoms similar to what Tony Soprano has on the HBO show The Sopranos, except I don't pass out). And I was wondering what types of treatment are out there. Is this something I should see someone about and should I see a therapist or a psychiatrist? Monica

Answer: It does sound like you are having panic attacks, but I really urge you to go to your doctor first to get anything physical ruled out. Assuming there are no physical problems, a psychiatrist and a therapist would both be helpful to you. The psychiatrist could give you the most appropriate medicine, if needed, and the therapist would work with you to lessen and prevent the anxiety cognitively and behaviorally.

You would look at things like where or when you become anxious, who you are with, what you are doing, and what you are thinking at the time. You might need to adjust your expectations of yourself, change jobs, or something else. The medicine would be useful to lessen your symptoms if they are severe and cause you distress.

I urge you to get a consultation soon - there are very effective treatments for anxiety these days. You don't have to suffer unnecessarily!

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    The above is for general information only and is not intended to substitute for professional mental health treatment. Individuals should consult licensed professionals as needed.