What’s the Difference Between Anxiety and Depression?

Written By Deseray Wilson, LMHC

Understanding Anxiety

Anxiety and depression are two of the most common mental health disorders. These disorders can be debilitating and significantly impact an individual’s daily life. Despite the fact that these two conditions share many common symptoms, they are separate conditions with distinct diagnostic criteria. In this guide, we will explore the differences, symptoms, causes, and treatments of anxiety and depression.

  • Anxiety is a feeling of fear or apprehension about an upcoming event or situation. Symptoms of anxiety can include:

  • A fast heartbeat, racing thoughts, sweating, irritability, and panic attacks.

  • Anxiety disorders include Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Social Anxiety Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Phobias.

  • Anxiety is caused by a variety of factors, including genetics, environmental factors, brain chemistry, and life experiences.

  • Treatment for anxiety typically includes therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

Understanding Depression

Depression is a mood disorder marked by a persistent feeling of sadness or hopelessness. Symptoms of depression can include:

  • fatigue, loss of interest in activities, feelings of worthlessness, and changes in sleeping or eating habits.

  • Major Depressive Disorder, Persistent Depressive Disorder, Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder, and Disruptive Mood Dysregulation Disorder are some examples of depression.

  • Depression may be caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, brain chemistry, life experiences, and medical conditions such as chronic illness.

  • Treatment for depression may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both.

Key Differences between Anxiety and Depression:

Anxiety is fear and unease about a future event or situation, while depression is persistent sadness or hopelessness.

  • Anxiety is often characterized by physical symptoms such as a fast heartbeat or sweating, whereas depression is associated with a lack of energy and motivation.

  • Anxiety is often triggered by specific situations, while depression can arise in response to multiple factors.

  • Anxiety tends to be more situational, whereas depression is often a chronic state of being.

  • Anxiety is often characterized by excessive worry or fear, while depression is characterized by a lack of interest or pleasure in activities.

Co-occurring Anxiety and Depression

Co-occurring anxiety and depression are common, with estimates suggesting that up to 60% of people with anxiety disorders also experience symptoms of depression.

  • Co-occurring anxiety and depression can lead to greater functional impairment and poorer treatment outcomes than either condition alone.

  • It is important to have a thorough evaluation by a mental health professional to receive an accurate diagnosis and determine the most effective course of treatment.

Treatment for Anxiety and Depression

Treatment for anxiety and depression often involves a combination of medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes.

  • Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) are commonly used to treat anxiety and depression.

  • Therapy provides patients with the tools to manage symptoms, identify and change negative thought patterns, and learn coping strategies.

  • Lifestyle changes such as exercise, healthy eating, and regular sleep can also be beneficial for both conditions.

While anxiety and depression share some similarities, they have their own distinct symptoms, causes, and treatments. Understanding the differences between anxiety and depression is essential in determining the appropriate treatment plan and achieving optimum results. If you are experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression, seek the help of a qualified mental health professional who can guide you towards reclaiming a healthy and fulfilling life.

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Deseray Wilson, LMHC

Deseray is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who’s committed to helping Black women learn how to lighten the load. When she created Anxious Black Girls, her mission was to create safe spaces where Black women could break generational patterns that normalize stress, overworking, overthinking, unhealthy relationship patterns and the lack of empathy for self, so they have the capacity to develop healthy habits and relationships, accept help, and feel empowered to live freely in their greatness without the burden of having to figure it out on their own.

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