Stress, Anxiety and Depression


	Impact Consultancy Services

The psychology of stress, anxiety and depression

To many people, anxiety/depression is something that afflicts others and is often labelled as a weakness. However, it is known that problems associated with anxiety/depression affect the vast proportion of us at some time in our lives. In fact research shows that over a quarter of visits to General Practitioners involve problems related to a stress/anxiety or depressive disorder.

However, many do not seek help, mistakenly believing that their problems are unique to them or that there must be something dreadfully wrong with them (physically or mentally) or that seeking help may stigmatise them socially or professionally.

Such problems may be a result of a single traumatic event (such as bereavement, divorce or other personal tragedy) or due to prolonged duress caused by a combination of difficulties (such as problems related to work, home, Business, finance etc).

What's wrong with me? Why do I feel this way?

Typically, anxiety and depression manifest themselves through a combination of some or all of the following symptoms;

	Loss of appetite
	Excessive worrying
	Avoidance of specific people/places/events
	Feelings of panic or fear
	Disrupted or altered sleep pattern
	Irrational fears
	Obsessive thoughts
	Irritability
	Restlessness
	Poor Concentration
	Overly - emotional
	Low self - esteem
	Low mood/crying
	Lack of energy/motivation
	Loss of interest in usual activities
	Loss of interest in personal appearance
	Increased alcohol/substance use
	Feelings of guilt
	Reduced sexual performance/reduced libido

What can I do?

Many who seek medical help for anxiety based disorders are prescribed anti-depressant medications. This is because the symptoms of anxiety, if left untreated, can lead to symptoms typical of depressive illnesses. Drugs, however, do not necessarily affect the underlying causes of the of problem.

Recent scientific research has established that psychological approaches to treatment are more likely to produce long-term change and benefits. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy has, for some time, proven to be an effective and durable approach to addressing such problems.

What is Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (C.B.T)?

C.B.T is a psychological treatment method based on extensive research over the past 30 years.

It is a partnership between therapist and client that relies on a shared understanding of the client's own psychology. This clearly relies on a thorough assessment of the individuals' current behaviours, thoughts and feelings.

C.B.T. uses an educative and collaborative approach to enable the client to change the way they are feeling/thinking and/or behaving, enabling them to regain control of their life. Although it is not strictly a time-limited therapy, change can normally be effected quickly, avoiding protracted and costly input.

Who can help me?

You can arrange to be seen by a fully qualified and experienced practitioner, usually within 7 days. Confidentiality is guaranteed, all practitioners are bound by a strict professional code of practice.

What to do next

Use the 'Contact Me' link on the left or click HERE to go there.

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