Depression and anxiety are very common in Broward County and across the U.S., but they do have effective treatments[1][2]. In fact, nearly 1 in 5 U.S. adults lives with a mental health disorder[1], and almost 1 in 3 adults will experience an anxiety disorder in their lifetime[3]. In Broward County (which includes Cooper City), about 20% of adults – roughly 400,000 people may struggle with issues like depression or anxiety[4]. If you or a loved one in Cooper City is feeling persistently sad, hopeless, fearful, or overwhelmed, professional help can make a difference. This guide explains what depression and anxiety look like, when it’s time to see a psychiatrist, and what treatment options are available locally.
Understanding Depression and Anxiety
Depression is more than just feeling sad. It often causes ongoing low mood, loss of interest in activities, fatigue, or changes in sleep and appetite[5]. Anxiety disorders involve excessive worry or fear that interferes with daily life. Common anxiety symptoms include constant worry about work/family, feeling tense or “on edge,” restlessness, trouble sleeping, and physical symptoms like a racing heart or upset stomach[6][7]. Both conditions can cause difficulty concentrating, irritability, or physical aches without a clear cause.
People with anxiety or depression may also notice:
– Feeling sad or empty most of the day, nearly every day[8].
– Losing interest or pleasure in most activities.
– Significant changes in sleep or appetite (sleeping a lot more or less, weight gain/loss)[5][9].
– Tiredness or low energy even after rest.
– Trouble thinking, remembering, or making decisions.
– Persistent feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or hopelessness.
– For anxiety: constant restlessness, panic or fear about everyday situations, and muscle tension.
Many of these symptoms overlap, and they can range from mild to severe. Depression and anxiety often occur together. Importantly, both are medical conditions with biological and psychological factors – they are treatable, not signs of weakness.
When to See a Psychiatrist (Signs to Get Help)
You might wonder, “Is this serious, or should I just wait it out?” In general, if symptoms persist beyond a couple of weeks or interfere with daily life, it’s time to seek help. For example, Cigna Healthcare notes that feeling sad or down nearly every day for two weeks or more is a red flag[8]. Likewise, changes in eating or sleeping habits, combined with loss of interest in activities, can signal a depressive episode[5][9].
Watch for any of these warning signs:
– Persistent low mood: Feeling sad, empty, or tearful most of the day, more days than not, for over two weeks[8].
– Loss of interest: Stopped enjoying things you once liked.
– Sleep or appetite changes: Sleeping far more or less than usual, significant weight changes[5].
– Fatigue and apathy: Feeling exhausted even after rest, and lacking motivation.
– Anxiety interfering with life: Constant, uncontrollable worry; panic attacks; feeling on edge much of the time.
– Physical symptoms: Unexplained headaches, stomachaches, or racing heart that accompany stress or worry.
– Self-harm or suicidal thoughts: Any thoughts of wanting to die, self-harm behaviors, or giving up are urgent signs – seek help immediately (call 911 or 988)[10].
It can also help to trust your instincts. If you notice you “no longer feel like yourself,” or friends/family are concerned about changes in your mood or behavior[11][12], talk to a professional. Even if symptoms seem mild at first, early treatment can prevent them from getting worse. For example, if you’re feeling hopeless or believe nothing will ever get better, signs of depression, that is a cue to reach out[12]. Remember, mental health is just as important as physical health: persistent symptoms are not something you should try to “tough out” alone.
Who Is a Psychiatrist and How Can They Help?
Psychiatrists and psychiatric nurse practitioners are medical professionals trained specifically in mental health. Unlike general doctors or therapists, they have advanced training to understand both the mind and the body. A psychiatrist has an M.D. or D.O. degree; at Twelve Oaks, our lead provider is a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner (PMHNP-BC), which involves similar medical training in psychiatry. The key difference is that psychiatrists/PMHNPs can prescribe medication to help correct the brain chemistry behind depression or anxiety[13]. (Therapists and psychologists can offer talk therapy but cannot prescribe medication.)
At your first appointment with a psychiatrist (or nurse practitioner), you’ll have a thorough evaluation[14]. Expect your provider to ask about your medical history, mental health history, current symptoms, and what you hope to achieve. They may ask you to describe your mood patterns, sleep, diet, and any stressors or changes in life. A complete review of your health helps identify any physical issues (like thyroid problems) that could contribute to mood or anxiety symptoms. This evaluation may take 60–90 minutes so your provider can fully understand your situation.
With this information, the psychiatrist will form a diagnosis and discuss treatment options. Because psychiatrists are medical doctors, they consider both therapy and medication as tools. They will explain the risks and benefits of any medication and answer your questions. Importantly, they work collaboratively with you: there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Your goals and comfort will help shape the plan.
Treatment Options for Depression and Anxiety
Treatment is highly individualized, but usually involves a combination of approaches. Research and clinical guidelines show that therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes can effectively manage depression and anxiety[3][15]. Often the most benefit comes from combining counseling with medication, when needed, under a psychiatrist’s guidance.
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- Psychotherapy (Talk Therapy): Techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) teach coping skills and help change negative thought patterns. Therapy is a cornerstone for both depression and anxiety and can be done one-on-one or in groups.
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- Medications: Antidepressant and anti-anxiety medications can help regulate brain signaling involved in mood and anxiety. Common first-line choices include SSRIs (e.g. sertraline, fluoxetine) or SNRIs (e.g. venlafaxine). These drugs can improve mood and reduce anxiety over several weeks of use[16]. Benzodiazepines (like Xanax) are used very cautiously for short-term panic relief. Your provider will select and adjust medication based on your needs. For people already on a prescription, ongoing medication management gives your provider a way to monitor how a treatment is working and adjust it thoughtfully over time.
- Lifestyle and Self-Care: Simple changes can also help lift mood and reduce anxiety. Keeping a regular routine (consistent sleep and meal times), exercising regularly, and practicing relaxation techniques (deep breathing, meditation) have been shown to help[15]. Even setting small daily goals or connecting with friends can make a difference.
- Medications: Antidepressant and anti-anxiety medications can help regulate brain signaling involved in mood and anxiety. Common first-line choices include SSRIs (e.g. sertraline, fluoxetine) or SNRIs (e.g. venlafaxine). These drugs can improve mood and reduce anxiety over several weeks of use[16]. Benzodiazepines (like Xanax) are used very cautiously for short-term panic relief. Your provider will select and adjust medication based on your needs. For people already on a prescription, ongoing medication management gives your provider a way to monitor how a treatment is working and adjust it thoughtfully over time.
At Twelve Oaks, we tailor the treatment plan to you. If symptoms are mild, we might start with lifestyle changes and therapy. For more severe cases, we often start medication alongside counseling. Throughout treatment, we monitor progress and side effects, adjusting as needed. We also emphasize ongoing support; depression and anxiety often require weeks to months of care. Regular follow-ups allow us to make sure the plan is working and to support you through any challenges.
Access to Care in Cooper City: We offer both in-person and telehealth appointments. Our Cooper City office (10400 Griffin Road, Suite 201) provides face-to-face care for those nearby. For convenience and safety, we also provide HIPAA-compliant telepsychiatry throughout Florida[17]. You can have the same quality appointments from home or office via video. We accept most major insurances (e.g. Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and more)[18]. Our goal is to make it easy for you to get help, whether you live in Cooper City, Weston, Pembroke Pines, or anywhere in the state.
Finding Help in Cooper City, FL
Twelve Oaks Psychiatry is led by Michael Hernandez, APRN, PMHNP-BC, a board-certified psychiatric nurse practitioner with extensive experience treating depression, anxiety, ADHD, trauma and addiction[19]. Our office hours are weekdays, and we even offer same-day visits when possible. We welcome both adults and adolescents. To schedule an appointment at our Cooper City location, call (954) 947-1130 or visit our website. We also partner with therapists and support resources in Broward County to ensure you have a comprehensive care team.
For urgent needs, Cooper City residents have access to 24/7 help lines: in an emergency or if you have thoughts of self-harm, call 911 immediately. You can also dial 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. The City of Cooper City and Broward County also promote 211 Broward (211FirstCall.org) for local mental health resources and support. You do not have to face depression or anxiety alone – help is available right here in our community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are common symptoms of depression and anxiety?
A: Depression often causes a persistently low or empty mood, loss of interest in activities, changes in sleep or appetite, fatigue, and trouble concentrating. Anxiety may cause constant worry about daily life, feeling restless or “on edge,” panic attacks, trouble sleeping, and physical symptoms like a racing heart or upset stomach. Both can lead to irritability, guilt, or hopelessness. If these symptoms last most of the day for two weeks or longer, or if they significantly disrupt work, school, or relationships, you should talk to a doctor[8][6].
Q: When should I consider seeing a psychiatrist?
A: See a psychiatrist if you have ongoing symptoms of depression or anxiety that don’t improve. A good rule of thumb is the two-week guideline: if you feel sad, empty, or severely worried most days for two weeks or more (especially with changes in sleep, appetite, or energy)[8], get help. Also seek help if symptoms worsen, or if you experience panic attacks, inability to function daily, or thoughts of suicide. Early care can help prevent problems from getting worse.
Q: What is the difference between a psychiatrist and a therapist (psychologist)?
A: Both work with mental health, but psychiatrists are medical doctors (or psychiatric nurse practitioners) who can diagnose conditions and prescribe medications[13]. Therapists and psychologists have graduate degrees (PhD, PsyD, or MSW) and focus on counseling (talk therapy) and behavior strategies, but they cannot write prescriptions. Often people benefit from seeing both: a therapist for counseling and a psychiatrist for medication management.
Q: What treatments do psychiatrists use for depression and anxiety?
A: Psychiatrists use a mix of therapy, medications, and lifestyle guidance. They may refer you to counseling (alone or in combination with medication) and prescribe antidepressants or anti-anxiety medications when appropriate. They can also recommend resources like support groups or stress management techniques. Our approach is always patient-centered, we choose treatments based on your history, symptoms, and preferences, and adjust as needed.
Q: Do you accept insurance and offer telehealth?
A: Yes. Twelve Oaks Psychiatry accepts most major insurance plans (Blue Cross/Shield, Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, and more, etc.)[18]. We offer both in-person appointments at our Cooper City office and secure telehealth visits for patients throughout Florida[17]. Telehealth is HIPAA-compliant and works well via smartphone or computer. We can verify your insurance benefits when you call to schedule.
Q: Is my information kept private?
A: Absolutely. All sessions and communications with our providers are confidential under HIPAA regulations. Our telehealth platform is secure and meets all privacy standards[17]. We use patient information only to provide care or as required by law.
Q: What should I do in an emergency?
A: If you ever feel unsafe with your thoughts, or if you have a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. If you are in crisis but not in immediate physical danger, you can also dial 988 (Suicide and Crisis Lifeline) or call 800-273-TALK (8255) for free support, 24/7[20]. These hotlines connect you with trained counselors who can help you right away. You do not have to wait for an office visit to get urgent help.
DISCLAIMER: This blog is for general informational purposes and not intended as medical advice. It does not establish a doctor-patient relationship, and is not a substitute for individualized care. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your own condition. Twelve Oaks Psychiatry complies with HIPAA privacy rules; your personal health information is kept confidential. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency or crisis, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room immediately.
[1] [20] Mental Health – Cooper City, FL
[2] Any Anxiety Disorder – National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
[3] [16] Anxiety disorders will affect nearly 1 in 3 adults: Here’s what you need to know
[4] Unveiling Mental Health Statistics and Issues in Broward County, Florida | Psychiatric Nurse Practioner, Adult Psychiatry & Telehealth located in Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, Florida and Broward County, Sunrise, FL | JM Psychiatry Inc
[5] [8] [10] [15] Depression and Mental Health | Cigna Healthcare
[6] [7] Treatment for Anxiety | Cooper City, FL | Psychiatrist — BetterlyMD
[9] [11] [12] [13] [14] When to See a Psychiatrist | Neuro Wellness Spa
[17] [18] [19] Home – Twelve oak