Anxiety, Paranoia, and Depression

[nikkster]

I have a family member that has extreme anxiety and paranoia  -- this also leads to depression.  He has had this problem for over 30 years.  I would like to try to help him and understand what are some natural ways from him to address this problem.   He has tried drugs (for four months) but believes they cause other side effects

Some exactly of the problems he has. He is a US citizen but refuses to go back to his home country because he thinks that US will not let him back him.  He worries and analyzes situation from 50 different angles and he always thinks other are out to get him.  Even his friends.  He is very focused on his own problems.  This lead to anxiety and then depression.

What is this problem called?  What causes this to happen?  Are there any natural ways to address this?

[RubyWitch]

First off, how old is this person?
He has had this problem for over 30 years and has tried medication ONCE for four months. How long ago was that?
Medications have come a very long way, (but they ALL carry some side effects with them) as has the understanding of anxiety/panic and depression. Can you get him to a doctor to at least discuss these issues and some options?
That he is afraid to leave the country for fear they won't let him back in is very paranoid thinking. As is the thought that everyone is out to get him.
That he looks at things from 50 different angles could be a form of an OCD type condition.
That he is very focused on his own problems could be a medical issue or it could be that he is just horribly bored. Does he spend most of his time alone? Does he get out much?

That he is suffering from anxiety and depression should come as a surprise to no one.

What is this problem called? I don't know if one name would fit all his symptoms.

His age is important as this could be dementia or the beginning of Alzheimers. What caused this is something only a medical doctor could address and as for wondering if there is a "natural" fix for this, my gut reaction is no. We need some more information about this person to really offer you any help, hope or advice. Please write back.
Peace
Greenlydia