One of the more frequently asked questions about mental health is what is the difference between anxiety and depression.  Anxiety and depression are the two most prevalent mental illnesses in society and often occur together, sometimes making it difficult to differentiate the symptoms.  However, according to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, anxiety disorders affect 40 million adults in the US with at least 16 million more having a major depressive episode in any given year.  And nearly half of those who were diagnosed with depression are also suffering from an anxiety disorder.

Considering how frequently these two illnesses tend to occur together, it is helpful to take a look at them separately to understand the difference between anxiety and depression.

Anxiety

Anxiety is characterized by symptoms of panic, fear, uncertainty, apprehensiveness, and a pervasive worry of the future.  Someone suffering with anxiety may feel on edge.  The physical responses can range from fight or flight symptoms, physical health disorders, restlessness and restless sleep, heart palpitations, sudden exhaustion then recovery after an episode, difficulty concentrating, or active avoidance of the trigger.

Depression

Depression is characterized by general feelings of hopelessness and helplessness, possibly with suicidal thoughts although that is not always the case.  Physically, depression tends to manifest as a loss of energy or interest, pervasive exhaustion, changes in eating behavior, headaches, difficulty concentrating, or even slowed thinking or movement.  Sleep patterns may change, but usually in the way of staying asleep too long or waking up too early (anxiety is often characterized by interrupted sleep due to the restlessness).

When we revisit the idea that anxiety and depression can co-exist, it does make a difference which illness is the primary and which is the secondary.  As such, it still helps to know the difference between anxiety and depression in order to determine which to treat first, because treating the primary first should relieve the second.

Having both anxiety and depression at the same time often increases the severity of each more than if they had occurred alone.  In the case of those who have depression, the secondary diagnosis of generalized anxiety can lead more quickly to the symptom of suicidal thoughts.  On the flip side, someone who is experiencing general anxiety may logically develop feelings of depression that can worsen over time as a result of feeling so uncomfortable long-term.  Again, knowing which illness is primary and which is secondary can help point to the proper treatment plan.

No matter what the difference between anxiety and depression, treatment can still overlap.  Both conditions are often treated with antidepressants, such as SSRIs.  Cognitive-behavioral therapy is a popular solution, as well.  Stress management techniques and self-care can play a big role in the treatment plan in the long-run.  (For more information about self-care, read our blog about Top Tips to Improve Your Mental Health).

Even though there is a difference between anxiety and depression, both are ultimately treatable.  If you think you may be suffering from anxiety, depression, or any other mental illness, be sure to check in with your doctor and get a regular treatment plan.  Your quality of life can improve dramatically!

Our team at Be Well is available to you if you are looking to get help for anxiety or depression.  Our physician and nurse practitioner can talk this through with you and help you decide the next steps.  Contact us today at buzz@VisitBeWell.com so we can help you Be Well!