Depression - Anxiety - Stress

People who struggle with depression often feel down for extended periods. They lose interest in activities that they once found pleasurable. Depression negatively affects millions of Americans each year.  Stress and anxiety are related, but often confused. Stress is tension associated with a specific event (e.g. a test or a job), while anxiety is a non-specific worry about the future. To find relief, people with anxiety may turn to repetitive routines, preoccupations, or addictions. 

Feeling understood and understanding one's partner is what allows couples to deeply share one another's lives. Often, couples struggle with communication issues, which actually mask deeper relationship issues.  Trust plays a vital role in sustaining a relationship. People trust differently. For some, trust is established quickly, while others are slow to grant trust. Similarly, some are able to forgive quickly, while others find it hard.  Conflict resolution is an important part of any relationship. Conflict plays a vital role in allowing two people to reconcile differing needs. Unfortunately, when conflict is handled poorly, it can cause distress in the relationship. 

Self-esteem is a feeling of personal worth. It is important to be able to value yourself regardless of your current state of personal achievement, beauty, or intelligence. Your self-esteem creates the foundation for a full life, great relationships, and a feeling of well-being.  Codependency is an unhealthy love and a tendency to behave in overly passive or excessively care giving ways that negatively impact one's  relationship and quality of life.  Experiences that overwhelm or scare us can leave a lasting impression. The symptoms can leave us stressed, depressed, and have negative consequences for our work and home life.