Depression and anxiety are different conditions, but they usually occur sequentially or together. It is normal to feel sad, low on energy, and/or disinterested in daily activities sometimes. The same is true about worrying and/or panic. But if these conditions persist, are uncontrollable, and/or start affecting daily life, one may be suffering from depression and/or anxiety and should seek professional help.

Anxiety may occur as a symptom of major depression, or vice-versa. It is also common to experience depression triggered by an anxiety disorder such as panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, separation anxiety disorder, or obsessive-compulsive disorder. Many patients have a diagnosis of both clinical depression and anxiety disorder.   

Depression and anxiety should not be ignored. It is not necessary to live with these conditions and suffer; they can usually be treated so one can live a normal life. Signs of depression and anxiety improve with psychological counseling (psychotherapy), medications (such as antidepressants), or both. If antidepressants (e.g., selected serotonin reuptake inhibitors) do not help with the symptoms of anxiety and depression, your psychotherapist may recommend antipsychotic medicines for some time. In other words, taking antipsychotic drugs as the treatment for depression and anxiety does not always mean you have psychosis. Psychiatrists prescribe them as they help rebalance certain chemical activity in the brain, which helps ease the symptoms of depression and/or anxiety. 

Lifestyle changes, such as improving sleeping patterns, increasing social support, using stress-reduction techniques, and regular physical activity, also help. Avoiding alcohol, smoking, and recreational drugs are recommended as they can worsen both conditions and meddle with medication.  

Common Symptoms Of Depression And Anxiety

Below are some of the common symptoms of anxiety and depression:   

• Feeling nervous, restless, or tense
• Loss of appetite
• Loss of sexual desire
• Feeling weak or tired
• Having an increased heart rate
• Breathing rapidly
• Excessive sweating
• Having a sense of impending danger, panic, or doom
• Crying spells
• Trouble concentrating or thinking about anything other than the present concern
• Having the urge to avoid things that trigger anxiety
• Having trouble sleeping
• Experiencing gastrointestinal (GI) problems
• Suicidal tendencies

What Are The Causes Of Depression And Anxiety?

• Genetics
• Changes in the brain’s neurotransmitter levels
• Environmental stressors
• Psychological and social stressors
• Additional mood disorders
• Hormonal changes such as menstrual cycles, pregnancy and giving birth
• Certain physical conditions, such as chronic pain or headaches
• Certain medications, such as sleeping aids and blood pressure medication

How To Overcome Anxiety And Depression? 

• Do not delay therapy: If signs of stress, anxiety, and depression persist, consult a psychologist/psychiatrist at the earliest. Improving mental health requires a multi-faceted approach, wherein counselling and/medication are essential.
• Stay physically activity: Keep yourself moving. Exercise requires concentration, and this can take your mind off the fear and anxiety.   
• Relax: Learning relaxation techniques can improve your mental health. Yoga, meditation, breathing exercises, massage, listening to music, reading a book and watching favorite movies can help with relaxation.
• Talk to people: If you are worried or get anxious, try to communicate your feelings to your trusted friends or relatives who are empathetic and supportive.   
• Eat healthy: Eat lots of fruit and vegetables. Eliminate refined sugar from your diet. Frequent drops in blood sugar can make one anxious. Try to avoid carinated drinks because caffeine increases anxiety. 
• Avoid alcohol and smoking:  Often, people resort to alcohol or smoking when they feel anxious. Unfortunately, neither is a helpful for dealing with anxiety and depression. Consider taking supplements: Supplements may help calm your mind and allow you to sleep well, a factor that plays a crucial role in managing mental health disorders. However, consult your doctor first, particularly if you have any medical conditions or are on medication.

Whether temporary mood swings or serious mental health conditions, your mental health deserves attention and betterment.