When it comes to mental health, anxiety and depression are two of the most common conditions that people face. Yet, many find it difficult to understand the differences between the two. If you've ever wondered whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or both, this article can help clear things up.
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is often described as a feeling of nervousness, fear, or worry. It’s your body’s natural response to stress, and while it’s normal to feel anxious from time to time (like before a big presentation or event), anxiety becomes a problem when it’s persistent, overwhelming, and exaggerated.
Anxiety often focuses on future events or worst-case scenarios, making you feel like you're constantly preparing for something bad to happen.
Key Symptoms of Anxiety:
Excessive worrying, even about small things
Feeling on edge
Restless
Racing thoughts
Difficulty concentrating
Physical symptoms like a fast heartbeat, sweating, or shortness of breath
Trouble sleeping
Feeling exhausted
What is Depression?
Depression is more than just feeling sad or down. It’s a condition that affects how you feel, think, and act. Depression can cause you to lose interest in activities you once enjoyed, and it can make everyday tasks feel impossible.
Depression tends to focus more on past experiences and feelings of guilt or hopelessness as if things won’t get better.
Key Symptoms of Depression:
Persistent sadness or feeling empty
Loss of interest in hobbies or activities
Fatigue or lack of energy
Changes in appetite
Difficulty sleeping
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Feelings of hopelessness
Feelings of worthlessness
In severe cases, thoughts of death or suicide
How Are Anxiety and Depression Different?
The key difference between anxiety and depression is the emotional focus. Anxiety is usually driven by fear and worry about the future, while depression is more focused on feelings of sadness and hopelessness related to the past or present.
Anxiety often comes with physical symptoms like a racing heart, trembling, or sweating. Depression often drains your energy and motivation, making it hard to enjoy anything or even get out of bed.
Can You Have Both?
Yes! Anxiety and depression can often occur together, and it’s not uncommon for one to trigger the other. For example, chronic anxiety can lead to depression over time, and depression can make you feel anxious about your future.
Getting Help
If you’re experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, or both, it’s important to reach out for support. Therapy can help you manage these feelings, gain clarity, and find effective coping strategies. As a men's mental health specialist, I understand the unique challenges men face and can offer tailored support to help you feel better.
If you’re having thoughts of suicide help is available - call or text 988 for the Suicide Hotline.
Aaron Benson, LCSW
Aaron has almost two decades' worth of experience helping people with different mental health issues including being a substance abuse counselor, health coach, and clinician. He specializes in helping men with anxiety, depression, grief, confidence, and anger issues. Aaron received a Bachelor of Sciences degree from Brigham Young University as well as a Masters of Social Work Degree from Eastern Washington University. His speciality is helping men in Utah and North Dakota through online therapy services.
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