Links Between Anxiety and Depression

Links Between Anxiety and Depression

Depression and anxiety disorders are not the same, although at first glance they seem very similar. Depression generates emotions such as hopelessness, despair and anger. Energy levels are usually very low, and depressed people often feel overwhelmed by the day-to-day tasks and personal relationships so essential to life.

A person with anxiety disorder, however, experiences fear, panic or anxiety in situations where most people would not feel anxious or threatened. The sufferer may experience sudden panic or anxiety attacks without any recognized trigger, and often lives with a constant nagging worry or anxiousness. Without treatment, such disorders can restrict a person’s ability to work, maintain relationships, or even leave the house.

Both anxiety and depression are frequently treated in much the same manner, which may explain why the two disorders are so often confused. Antidepressant medication is often used for anxiety, while behavioural therapy frequently helps people overcome both conditions.

Symptoms

Millions of Britons suffer from anxiety disorders. Almost half of all people diagnosed also suffer from depression or depressive symptoms. Statistically, two out of three people diagnosed with depression exhibit anxiety symptoms.

Although the two disorders have a tendency to be present at the same time, this does not mean they are the same. Anxiety disorders can develop without any signs of depression, and people living with depression may not experience any anxiety symptoms.

Anxiety Symptoms

·       fear

·       anxiety

·       nervousness

·       panic

·       anxiety attacks

·       helplessness

Depression Symptoms

·       sadness

·       feeling “empty”

·       hopelessness

·       thoughts of death or suicide

·       guilt

·       loss of interest in enjoyable

·       activities