Anxiety and depression are both serious mental illnesses. Unfortunately, they can be go together and make everyday life very difficult for people who are suffering. Understanding the signs and symptoms of both anxiety and depression is vital for helping a person regain control of their life.
It is not uncommon to see them manifest together, even though one condition doesn’t necessarily cause the other. Considering the potential ramifications of both anxiety and depression, early diagnosis and proper treatment is almost always advisable.
If the conditions are recognized and correct help is obtained, they can be overcome successfully. Knowing that to have their panic and anxiety gone, is a relief in itself.
Signs of Anxiety
Anxiety can appear in a number of different ways. From very particular phobias to generalized anxiety about everyday living, the actual triggers might vary. Some of the symptoms that tend to go across the board, however, include:
- Signs of a heart attack – palpitations, chest pains and discomfort and racing heartbeats.
- Sweating
- Problems sleeping
- Irritability
- Impending sense of fear, doom or even worry about imminent death
- Stomach problems and discomforts
If anxiety is particularly severe, a person might experience a full blown panic attack. These episodes are incredibly frightening to the person who is suffering. Many people who suffer from anxiety try to safeguard themselves from the things they see as triggers. Whether this is social situations, heights, public speaking or even being separated from family or leaving the house, the end result is the generally the same – some form of isolation. This tends to be where anxiety and depression can intersect.
Depression Signs
We all feel down or sad sometimes, but real depression is smothering. The symptoms of this condition, if left untreated, can lead to suicidal thoughts and consequences. Keeping an eye out for them is important if other mental illnesses, such as anxiety, are present. Symptoms are:
- Lack of enthusiasm in normal activities
- A feeling of sadness that persists for several weeks or longer
- Feelings of guilt and hopelessness
- Thoughts of suicide or death
- Eating habit changes
- A desire to be alone
Anxiety and depression are both serious illnesses. Both can be treated rather effectively if their signs and symptoms are recognized and acted upon correctly. Medication therapy or seeking counseling are some of the ways to help a person back on the right path. There are also other ways for alleviating anxiety and stress. Trying to work through a combination of anxiety and depression illnesses alone is generally not advised.