Millions of people in the United States live with a mental health condition that affects their daily functioning. Depression and anxiety disorders are among the most common mental health conditions. But what is the difference between these disorders?
This article will explore the differences between depression and anxiety. You will learn:
- The symptoms of depression
- How to treat depression
- The symptoms of anxiety
- How to treat anxiety
- How to determine which mental health condition you have
- Where to find comprehensive mental health treatment
If you or someone you love lives with the symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mental health disorders, you are not alone. Find compassionate, comprehensive treatment at Palm City Wellness. Contact our intake team to learn more about our programs or to schedule your first appointment.
What is Depression?
Depression is a common mood disorder that affects millions of people each year. According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), about 21 million people in the US experience an episode of depression each year.
Common symptoms of depression include:
- Feelings of hopelessness
- Fatigue
- Feeling mentally or physically “slowed down”
- Shame, guilt, low self-worth, or helplessness
- Sleep changes–either sleeping too much or struggling to sleep well
- Restlessness or agitation
- Low mood or feelings of sadness
- Loss of interest in activities
- Physical symptoms, including digestive issues or pain without a clear physical cause
- Thoughts of death, dying, or suicide
- Frustration or irritability
There are several types of depression. Here is an overview of several common types of depression.
Major depression
Major depressive disorder involves symptoms of depression that last at least two weeks. People with major depression may have low energy, fatigue, loss of interest, and other symptoms that interfere with daily functioning.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)
People with SAD experience depressive symptoms that follow seasonal patterns. Most people experience worsening symptoms during the winter months. Symptoms typically improve in the Spring.
Persistent depressive disorder (PDD)
Persistent depressive disorder causes symptoms of depression that last for at least two years.
Perinatal depression
Perinatal depression occurs during pregnancy or in the postpartum period. Depression during pregnancy is called “prenatal depression,” while depression occurring after birth is called “postpartum depression.”
Depression is treatable. If you or a loved one experiences symptoms of depression, seek treatment as soon as possible. Contact the Palm City Wellness specialists to find compassionate treatment and resources.
Treatment for Depression
People experiencing new or worsening depression symptoms must seek treatment as quickly as possible. If you or someone has thoughts of suicide or self-harm, seek emergency help. Call or text Lifeline at 988, call 911, or go to your nearest emergency department.
People with depression benefit from comprehensive treatment programs. Treatment for depression may include:
- Behavioral therapies, such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)
- Counseling
- Family therapy
- Medications
- Lifestyle changes
- Support groups
- Education about depression and symptom management
- Holistic therapies, including nutrition counseling, exercise, mindfulness, and more
Getting treatment for depression can help people improve functioning in their daily lives. Contact the Palm City Wellness team to learn more about treatment for depression or to schedule an intake appointment.
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is a common mental health condition. The NIMH estimates that over 40 million people in the United States have an anxiety disorder.
Some common symptoms of anxiety include:
- Difficulty concentrating
- Muscle tension
- Tingling or numbness in the arms and legs
- Faster breathing
- Nausea or stomach discomfort
- Sweating
- Dry mouth
- Tightness in the chest or throat
- Teeth clenching or grinding
- Fast or irregular heart rate
- Headaches
- Sleep disruptions
- Restlessness
- Agitation
- Compulsive behaviors
There are several types of anxiety disorders, including:
- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
- Phobias
- Panic disorder
- Social anxiety disorder
The symptoms of anxiety can impact a person’s daily life in many ways. It may prevent them from managing daily responsibilities, sleeping, or caring for themselves. People may find ways to cope with anxiety, but symptoms can sometimes become unmanageable.
If you or a loved one experiences feelings of anxiety, seek treatment. Palm City Wellness offers comprehensive anxiety treatment programs. Contact our intake specialists to learn more or schedule an appointment.
Treatment for Anxiety
Anxiety is treatable. Mental health professionals first diagnose anxiety, then create tailored treatment programs to address each person’s unique needs.
An anxiety treatment program might include:
- Medcations
- Counseling
- Education about anxiety and symptom management
- Behavioral therapies, including CBT
- Lifestyle changes
- Holistic therapies, like mindfulness, breathing exercises, yoga, exercise, nutrition support, and more
- Support groups
Palm City Wellness offers comprehensive mental health treatment programs. Our caring mental health professionals use evidence-based therapies to help people manage their symptoms and improve functioning.
Depression vs Anxiety: How Can I Determine Which Condition I Have?
Depression and anxiety often cause different symptoms. However, both conditions can interfere with work, relationships, and other aspects of daily life.
If you or someone you love lives with new or worsening symptoms of depression or anxiety, seek treatment right away. Treatment for anxiety and depression may begin with a thorough mental health evaluation. This evaluation will allow your mental health professionals to provide an accurate diagnosis.
Contact the Palm City Wellness specialists to learn more about our programs or to schedule an intake appointment.
References:
- National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): Mental Illness
- National Institute of Health (NIH): Depression: Learn More – Types of depression
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): Anxiety Disorders