Anxiety and Depression
Why They’re Linked and What You Can Do
People with anxiety disorders often also struggle with depression. Almost two-thirds of people with an anxiety disorder also meet the criteria for a depressive diagnosis at some point in their lives. To understand how these two conditions are linked and what you can do to tackle both simultaneously, let’s take a moment to explore the relationship between anxiety and depression.
What is Depression?
If you struggle with depression, you could experience the following signs:
- Sadness, hopelessness, or anxiousness
- A loss of interest in things you once enjoyed
- A lack of energy
- Eating more or less than you used to
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Trouble thinking or concentrating
For your symptoms to be considered depression, you need to have them most of the day, almost every day, for at least 2 weeks. And they shouldn’t have a medical cause, like a thyroid problem. Your doctor can check you for medical conditions that cause depression symptoms.
What Is Anxiety?
Fear and worry are common human emotions. However, these emotions may indicate an anxiety condition if they persist or are overpowering. If you regularly experience any of the following:
- Overwhelmed by worry.
- Cranky or on edge.
- Sweaty or shaky.
- Like you’re out of control.
The symptoms of each of the several forms of anxiety disorders vary. You have a generalized anxiety condition when you worry about several different things. When you have a social anxiety disorder, you worry too much about other people. A hammering heart and abrupt sensations of anxiety are indications of panic disorder, which also causes chest discomfort. Phobias are severe dread of objects or environments, such as animals or enclosed areas.
How Depression And Anxiety Are Linked?
Anxiety and depression are both quite prevalent and frequently co-occur. Anxiety and depression symptoms are present in about 60% of patients with anxiety, and vice versa. Each illness can potentially worsen or prolong the signs of the others. The same genes might cause both illnesses. Depression and anxiety may have similar brain functions or structural components. Anxiety and depression may both be brought on by stress and trauma in early childhood. You might be more likely to experience depression if you have anxiety. According to experts, avoiding the things you dread may cause despair.
How Are They Different?
The symptoms are the primary distinction between anxiety and depression. Sadness that lasts for a long time is called depression. Additionally, you lack energy and lose interest in pursuits you previously valued. Depression might cause some people to consider harming themselves.
Anxiety is characterized by uncontrollable dread or worry. Your anxiety may manifest itself during regular activities like meeting new people, depending on your type.
How Do You Treat Depression and Anxiety?
The treatment for anxiety and depression involves talk therapy, medication, or a combination. When treating depression and anxiety together, one of the most effective methods is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). CBT is a therapy that focuses on the connection between your thoughts, emotions, and behavior. CBT can help you challenge your negative thoughts and replace them with more positive and realistic ones that can lead to a happier and more fulfilling life. For mild states of depression and anxiety, we recommend listening to a CBT audio session in the Sensera app.
Don’t Give Up, Fight Together!
Fortunately, both conditions are highly treatable. With the right treatment, medication, and therapy, you can overcome these disorders and lead a fulfilling and happy life. With so many types of treatment available, you can find a solution that is right for you. You don’t have to suffer alone. Some people can help and support you through this, and you aren’t alone in this battle. So don’t give up and fight this together!
