Anxiety and depression can result from a number of life events, particularly where multiple challenges occur simultaneously or in close succession. Reactions to the death of a loved one, particularly if there has been insufficient time to process the difficult feelings that result, often give rise to anxiety and depression. It is as if we develop strong reactions to activities and situations that previously we didn’t find difficult. Insufficient time spent working through grief and loss often result in anxiety and panic attacks as the individual struggles to return to normal. However, the reality is that life has changed dramatically and both practical and emotional adjustments must be made. This process gives rise to existential yearnings and questioning of the world as you know it.
If insufficient time is given to this process, we unconsciously develop seemingly negative responses e.g. panick attacks and anxiety, in order to force ourselves to work through them. However, continued avoidance can result in depression, a sense of learned helplessness. A similar process of responding is apparent in other forms of loss like divorce and job loss.
Taking time to work through these difficult times is essential if a person is to return to a high level of daily functioning as well as re-creating meaning in their life. It is especially valuable to work with a skilled therapist during this time to ensure your depression doesn’t become something you learn to live with; instead, it can be transformed into living again with meaning and purpose, stronger for the changes you have gone through.