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Depression vs. Anxiety

Mental Health

By Social WorkerPublished 5 years ago 3 min read
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Know the difference!

What is depression?

Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by depressed mood and or loss of interest which causes impairment in daily life.

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is a feeling of worry or nervousness, usually about a significant event or something with an uncertain outcome.

There are different types of depression and different types of anxiety. People may struggle in these areas for different reasons.

Generally speaking, a person with depression will more likely feel hopeless about their future and will think and imagine the worst, while a person dealing with anxiety will more likely feel fearful about their future and will have thoughts that bother them.

A person with depression can end up committing suicide, while a person with anxiety can end up becoming depressed.

A person with depression may experience physical changes that may or may not be caused by some trigger, while a person with anxiety may experience symptoms within their body after an attack.

A person who is depressed may appear hopeless, drained and, may have limited energy. They may experience changes in sleeping patterns, interactions as well as in appetite, while someone with anxiety may display an apprehensive/fight or flight reaction. This could cause their body to become rigid/tense.

Here are the most common signs of depression:

  • You may experience irritability.
  • You may experience tiredness, not wanting to do anything but sleep,
  • OR, may be sleeping too much.
  • You may show a lack of interest.

Here are the most common signs of anxiety:

  • You may experience nervousness.
  • You may become sweaty often, usually in your palms.
  • You may be having a sense of panic (panic attacks are common).
  • Your breathing rate may increase (Hyperventilation is common).


What should you do if you are experiencing any of the two?

If you are experiencing any of these signs or symptoms, you may be dealing with a case of depression OR a case of anxiety. Talking to someone (Particularly a counselor or therapist) FIRST, will help you understand your symptoms. These individuals can help determine if what you are experiencing are early signs and what you should do to get the proper care. They can also provide additional information and resources that will be beneficial to you. Since many people have limited access to resources, talking to a family member or friend may also be helpful.

Depression and anxiety are two disorders that are overlooked. There is a great amount of stigma towards mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety. As you may or may not know, stigma is another word for disapproval.

According to healthline.com, 16.2 million adults in the United States, or 6.7 percent of American adults, have had at least one major depressive episode in a given year.

According to adaa.org, Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illnesses in the U.S., affecting 40 million adults in the United States age 18 and older, or 18.1 percent of the population every year.

Depression has no age but, teens often face it. People dealing with life changes may also have depression/severe depression (There is a difference).

These are issues that need to be addressed. Mental health needs more attention!

People should never feel like they are alone because, they are not alone!

You are not alone.

The good news is, these disorders are treatable.

Coping techniques are developed everyday.

Journaling is a way most people deal with their stress, depression and anxiety.

GET HELP and, if you know someone in need, encourage them to do the same!

Always remember: "You never know who can change your life or, whose life you may have an impact on."

depression
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About the Creator

Social Worker

Follow your Dreams!

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