https://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1489036130029829″
By Dr S.K.jha/ mefits.in
Anxiety and depression nowadays are two of the most common mental health problems and although they often occur together,but they are distinct in their symptoms, causes and effects.
Core differences
- Fear, worry, nervousness
- Overthinking, negative thoughts
- Rapid heartbeat, sweating, fatigue, restless
- Irritability, Racing thoughts , constant worry
- Avoidance of situation
6) Lack of interest in any activities
7) Unpleasant behaviour
8) Mood swing
9) Sleep disturbances
10) Agitation
Overlap between Anxiety and Depression
Many people experiences both at the same time – known as comorbid anxiety and depression.
Some common symptoms and signs
- Psychological symptoms
Depression
- Anxiety, irritability
- Decrease in libido
- Loss of interest in activities
- Dark thoughts
- Poor concentration/ sleep
Anxiety
- Angst
- Doubt
- Worry
- Ruminations
- Obsession
- Choking sensation
Physical symptoms
Depression
- Fatigue
- Agitation
- Aching muscles
- Decreased energy
- Uneasiness in the abdomen
- Changes in appetite
Anxiety
- Rapid heartbeat
- Tension
- Difficulty breathing
- Dizziness/ fatigue
- Heavy sweating
Behavioural symptoms
Depression
- Genetics ( family history)
- Brain chemistry – Imbalance in serotonin, Dopamine etc.
- Stressful life events – Trauma, financial trouble, grief
- Excessive guilt
- Low self-esteem
- Impaired decesion
- Isolation
- Withdrawal from others
Anxiety
- Neglect of responsibilities
- Trouble sleeping
- Isolation
- Extreme lethargy
- Suicidal thoughts
- Feeling misunderstood
- Loneliness
- Numbness
Causes
Both Anxiety and Depression can be triggered by
- Generics – family history
- Brain chemistry – Imbalances in serotonin, Dopamine etc.
- Stressful life events – Trauma, financial trouble, grief
- Medical conditions – Chronic illness, hormonal imbalances
So, if someone has both Anxiety and Depression, symptoms of anxiety will often show up before symptoms of major depression.
Around 70% people with anxiety also develop depression. Approximately, 300 million people affect this disorder worldwide.
Risk for suicide
It is a potentially fatal symptoms wich trigger suicidal thoughts in major cases. The risk of suicide is different,if people have anxiety, depression or both.
People with depression are 29 times more at risk. Those with both anxiety and depression are found to be 56 times more likely to end their life by suicide than someone without either illness.
What actually causes anxiety and depression
Lifestyle
a) financial struggle
b) overworring
c) unhealthy habits
Cognitive
a) perfectionism
b) low self-esteem
c) Body issues
d) Low self- worth
Biological
a) hormonal factors
b) chemical imbalance
Situations
a) Abuse
b) Bullying
c) Grief and loss
d) Poor and social network
Treatment
1 ) CBT ( cognitive behaviour therapy) – focus on controlling worry,fear , irritability etc. Therapy is an important part of treatment for both anxiety and depression. This CBT therapy is beneficial for both disorders.
2) Medications – SSRIs, SNRIs, benzodiazypines.
3) Lifestyle – Mindfulness, exercise , breathing techniques.
so, early intervention leads to better outcomes.
Dr S. K. Jha