What is the difference between Anxiety and Depression?

KNOW ABOUT MENTAL HEALTH

Article by - Suraksha

"Good mental health improves the overall quality of life." -WHO

Anxiety and depression are typical emotional disorders which is the leading cause of disability globally. Although both conditions may share similar symptoms and treatments, many differences help us distinguish between the two.

People with either anxiety or depression may have both disorders at the same time.

What is Anxiety?

It is a feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease about something with an uncertain outcome. Worrying about immediate or long-term future, having uncontrollable thoughts about something going wrong, and thinking about death (suicidal thoughts) are some mental signs of having anxiety.

GAD(generalized anxiety disorder), SAD(Social anxiety disorder), OCD(obsessive-compulsive disorder) are the types of anxiety.

Symptoms of Anxiety :

Stress
Inability to set aside a worry
Excessive worry
Unwanted thoughts
Fear
Irritability
Insomnia
Trembling
Lack of concentration
Fatigue or sweating

What is Depression?

Depression is a constant feeling of sadness and loss of interest, which stops you from doing your normal activities. Feeling worthless, assuming that nothing will happen positively in the future (being hopeless), and thinking about death (suicidal thoughts) are some mental signs of having depression. MDD(major depression disorder) is the most commonly found disorder.

Symptoms of Depression :

Dark moods
Deep feelings of sadness
Feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness
Appetite changes
Sleep changes
Lack of interest in things you used to enjoy
Difficulty getting through your normal activities.
Withdrawing from friends
Suicidal thoughts

What are the home treatment and medications?

If anyone is having the above symptoms, you may cure this condition at home also. But, if you are having severe anxiety/depression attacks consult professional experts and get yourself medicinal medications.

For Anxiety :

Stay active - do things that keep you busy
Stop alcohol, smoking, and caffeine
Get some sleep - good sleep plays a vital role in improving your mental health.
Meditate - meditate atleast ten minutes a day. It helps you to calm your mind and stay focused.
Eat healthy food - a healthy diet is most important for your physical health, which builds your mental health.
Practice breathing exercise - breathing exercises improve the oxygen level of your body.
Try aromatherapy - a good fragrance always gives a good vibe and fresh feeling.

For Depression :

Get in a routine - make a routine of your daily activities and keep track of it.
Set goals - Setting goals makes you move forward to progress
Exercise - exercise atleast 15 minutes a day.
Eat healthily - eating healthy food is the most important factor in improving your mental and physical health.
Get enough sleep - a good night's sleep between 11 pm to 5 am is most important.
Challenge negative thoughts - try to set aside negative thoughts and replace them with some positivity.
Do something new
Try to have fun

According to WHO, depression is more commonly found in women than in men. The average age of depression in India is 31.9 years. ( http://www.who.int) Though anxiety and depression are the leading cause of disability globally, we should be aware of the above facts and can be able to face and fight them.

If you or someone in your family or friends suffers from this situation, you may seek help from a national website given below. Nhp.gov.in

"Make mental health your priority."