What is the Difference Between Anxiety and Depression?

Anxiety and Depression

Depression is like one type of sickness, but it can show up in many ways. People might feel it in different ways, and it has many symptoms. Even though it seems different for everyone, we still call it depression.

Anxiety is a word that can mean different things. Sometimes, we all feel worried, and that’s when we use the word “anxiety.” But when doctors talk about anxiety, they mean a bunch of conditions that can make you feel nervous or scared.

What is depression?

Depression is when a person’s mind doesn’t feel good. It brings a lingering sadness and takes away the interest in things that once brought joy. It’s not just a tough day; it sticks around, making everyday tasks difficult. Sometimes, it even affects the body, making it feel less great and cause of mental illness. Seeking help from people who understand this can create a significant positive change. It’s important to talk to someone who knows about these feelings and can provide the right support.

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is when you feel worried or nervous. It’s like that feeling you get before a test or meeting new people, but it’s more serious when it’s a medical thing. It’s not just regular worry; it’s a bunch of conditions where the worry is strong and lasts long, making everyday life tough. Sometimes, it comes with physical feelings like a fast heartbeat or sweating. If someone has a lot of anxiety, they might need some help and support to feel better.

Symptoms of Depression 

• Feeling guilty
• Crying a lot
• Feeling tired all the time
• Thinking about hurting yourself
• Eating more or less than before
• Finding it hard to think or focus
• Not enjoying things you used to like
• Having trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
• Feeling really sad, hopeless, or super worried

Symptoms of Anxiety 

• Feeling super stressed out
• Feeling stuck or trapped
• Getting sweaty or shaky
• Feeling cranky or on edge
• Being worried and overwhelmed
• Feeling like things are out of control
• Feeling scared, paranoid, and tense
• Worrying a lot and feeling dread
• Having trouble breathing and feeling tight in your chest

Types of Depression and Anxiety

Types of Depression

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) is when someone feels sad a lot and doesn’t enjoy things they used to like.

• Persistent Depressive Disorder (PDD) is a long-lasting sadness that sticks around for a while but is not as strong as intense sadness.

• Bipolar Disorder Having times of feeling super happy and then feeling down, with big mood swings.

• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Feeling down, especially in the winter when there’s not much sunlight.

• Psychotic Depression Feeling extremely sad, along with having strange thoughts or seeing things that aren’t there,

• Postpartum Depression Moms feel very sad and tired after having a baby.

Types of Anxiety

There are different kinds of anxiety disorders, and each one has its signs.

• Generalized anxiety disorder is when you worry a lot about many things.

• Social anxiety disorder is when you get too worried around other people.

• Panic disorder makes you suddenly feel really scared, with symptoms like chest pain and a fast heart.

• Phobias are strong fears of certain places or things, like small spaces or animals.

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder is when you can’t stop thinking certain thoughts and doing certain things over and over.

• Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) usually happens after you’ve been through something really tough. It can make you relive it in your mind or make you feel very anxious when something reminds you of it.