Anxiety and Depression

Anxiety and depression are both often seen in the same person at different times during periods of emotional stress and conflict. Normal coping mechanisms allow us to recover and continue to enjoy life. Anxiety and depression are considered normal when caused by a traumatic or life-changing event, as long as there is progress toward recovery. When anxiety and depression become chronic and interfere with a person’s ability to function normally, enjoy the daily events of life, perform work duties, or nurture healthy personal relationships, medical intervention is often recommended.

Signs of Depression

There are numerous signs of depression that may be obvious or subtle. Clinical or severe depression often goes unrecognized, especially by its victim.

A depressed person may:

• Feel sad
• Lack concentration
• Suffer from disturbed sleep
• Feel worthless
• Feel hopeless
• Feel guilty
• Lack the interest in or the ability to enjoy their usual pleasures (sex, hobbies, activities, etc.)
• Lack appetite
• Lack their usual energy
• Have suicidal or homicidal thoughts or intentions (in more severe cases)

Anxious persons may suffer from the same spectrum of symptoms, but they may also experience irritability, anger, agitation, or impatience. Major depression often runs in families, and will always recur under challenging circumstances.

Treatment

Recent advances in medication have destigmatized these conditions, and it is commonplace for sufferers to take one of the many readily available anti-depressant medications.

If a new onset bout of depression or anxiety should strike you or a companion while on vacation, it is best to wait until you return home to consult with your primary care physician or psychiatrist for treatment. Most antidepressant medications require a ramp-up period of two to three weeks before they demonstrate noticeable effectiveness. Thus, the treatment of depression with medication may not be effective during a short vacation.

If you do need to start medication, Prozac and Lexapro are excellent choices. Some anxiety sufferers may benefit from short-term antianxiety medications (tranquilizers) such as Alprazolam or Lorazepam. These medications can be addictive, and while they may be purchased in Mexico without a prescription, we recommend that you consult with a physician before taking them. If you already suffer from chronic, relapsing anxiety and depression, take your medication with you.

Of course, if a new bout of depression or anxiety is accompanied by suicidal or homicidal ideas, consult a physician immediately. Long-term travelers should seek local medical care. While MedToGo does not list psychiatrists or psychologists, most primary care providers are familiar with the management of anxiety and depression, or will refer you to an appropriate specialist.