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Anxiety And Depression Specialist

Gaffar Syed MD

Internal Medicine & Primary Care Practices located in Frederick, MD

Anxiety and depression are two of the most common mental health conditions in the United States. If you’re living with intrusive and distressing symptoms of anxiety or depression, contact Gaffar Syed, MD, at his practice in Frederick, Maryland. Dr. Syed offers personalized treatments for mental health conditions so you can lead a healthy and fulfilling life. Call Dr. Syed or schedule a consultation online today for help with anxiety and depression.

Anxiety and Depression Q & A

What is anxiety?

Anxiety disorders are widespread mental health conditions that cause intrusive, persistent, and distressing worries and fears. There are several different types of anxiety disorders that cause concerns about different things. For example, generalized anxiety disorder causes worries about everyday situations like family, health, or work. Social anxiety, on the other hand, causes fears about interacting with other people, either in groups or on a one-to-one basis. 

What is depression?

Depression is a mood disorder that causes pervasive feelings of deep sadness, hopelessness, and despair. It distorts your thinking and behavior, which can affect your relationships and performance at work or school. For example, you might lose interest in previously enjoyed activities or withdraw from your friends and family. 

When should I talk to a doctor about anxiety and depression?

Everyone feels sad or anxious occasionally. However, if you have persistent, distressing symptoms that are interfering with your health or quality of life, make an appointment with Dr. Syed. If you are thinking about hurting yourself or committing suicide, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. 

Depression and anxiety often co-occur and, when left untreated, can cause severe disruptions in your life or lead to complications like substance abuse. Fortunately, both anxiety and depression are treatable, and you can restore your health and quality of life. 

How are anxiety and depression treated?

Dr. Syed begins with a thorough evaluation of your mental and physical health. In addition to screening for the symptoms of these mental health conditions, he also runs tests for other health conditions that can cause similar symptoms. 

Then, he works with you to implement a personalized treatment plan to restore your mental, emotional, and physical health. Many people benefit from medication to regulate their brain chemistry and relieve their symptoms. Medicine doesn’t typically provide immediate results, though, so you’ll have to remain patient and keep Dr. Syed updated about your symptoms and concerns so he can monitor the medication’s effectiveness.

Dr. Syed might also recommend counseling. You can explore and resolve any underlying issues that contribute to your depression or anxiety. Your therapist might also teach you different techniques to cope with negative thoughts and feelings. 

Dr. Syed recommends making lifestyle adjustments to improve your overall health and body function. Regular exercise, for example, not only improves your physical health but is known to release the feel-good endorphins that boost your mood. 

If you’re concerned about depression and anxiety, call Dr. Syed or make an appointment online today for compassionate, personalized care.