The terms anxiety and depression disorders are often used interchangeably by many, but in reality they are quite different. For those suffering from anxiety, depression or both it is important for them to understand the distinctions because such an understanding will aid in their recovery.
Depression is marked by overwhelming feelings of sorrow and unhappiness. Those suffering from depression may feel powerless to confront life issues, be discouraged about their future prospects and are consistently ill-tempered toward the people in their lives. They may have a variety of symptoms ranging from loss of appetite, to altered sleep patterns (too much or little sleep), to lack of interest in former hobbies or interests to a pervasive sense of exhaustion.
On the other hand, someone suffering from anxiety will be fearful or panicky in places or circumstances where a normal person would not have similar feelings. To compound these issues, their bouts with fear and panic will quite often begin to surface for no apparent reason. Therefore, they will begin to avoid any situation they think might start an attack which, more than likely, will cause them to significantly adjust their lifestyle.
At its worse, depression experienced with anxiety will lead to significantly higher suicide rates than if a person was just suffering from depression by itself.
Therefore, if a person is suffering from an anxiety or depression disorder it is very important for them to seek to resolve their issues early before they have the opportunity to morph into a combination of conditions that will be even more difficult to treat and resolve. People with depression are specifically more prone to rationalize their symptoms and attribute their feelings to other issues and avoid treatment options.
So, whether it is depression or anxiety and panic issues, it is important to address them as soon as possible to avoid more extensive and complicated problems.
PanicBuster.com was created by anxiety treatment expert David Mellinger, MSW (RESUME). Click on the link to learn more about anxiety, worry, phobias, and obsessions and compulsions (OCD).