- Many people with anxiety and depression realize that worrying and self-criticism are unfounded, but they can’t stop them. Aleksei Morozovi/iStock
Are you worried enough to make it difficult to https://rehabhelper.co.za/rehab-clinics-durban/ - do your daily activities? Do you feel so blue it clouded your outlook? These or similar feelings are you familiar with? These feelings are not unique to you.
Anxiety disorders, which include generalized anxious disorder and panic disorder and social anxiety disorder are the most common mental illness among Americans. They affect 18.1 percent of the country’s population every year. The leading cause of disability is mood disorders, which include major depression, bipolar illness and seasonal affective disorders.
There is a high chance of having anxiety disorders or depression. Sally R. Connolly LCSW from Louisville, Kentucky, states that many people suffering from major depression also have severe and persistent anxiety. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness , experts believe that 60% of those with anxiety will also experience symptoms.
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What are the possible links between anxiety and depression?
Although they are not the same emotional states, research in mental health suggests that anxiety and depression can often coexist as they can be caused or exacerbated by similar factors. An article published in May 2020 in the American Journal of Psychiatry suggests that there are many causes of depression and anxiety.- Genetic Factors Genetic influences account for 40% of anxiety and depressive symptoms. 60% can be attributed to environmental or non-inherited factors. Connolly says that anxiety is more common than depression and there are often family histories. Therefore, we believe there could be a genetic predisposition.
- Social Factors Also known as trauma and neglect in childhood and current stressors like unemployment, relationship problems, and physical illness. According to the National Institute of Mental Health , people with post-traumatic stress disorder are more likely to develop depression.
- Harvard Health notes that chronic pain and disabling conditions such as fibromyalgia and irritable bowel syndromes (IBS), low back and headache pain, nerve pain and nerve pain are closely connected to psychological distress. This includes both anxiety and depression. According to Harvard Health, “pain shares some biological mechanism with anxiety and depression.”
- Connolly says that the “core” of double disorder is “a circle.” “When you become anxious, you have a tendency to think about some worry or problem all the time and feel awful about it. You feel defeated and then you fall into depression. She also said that people who feel depressed often feel anxious or worried. This can lead to depression.
Depression and Anxiety Symptoms
The Diagnostic Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders is the current standard classification of mental illnesses used by mental https://rehabhelper.co.za/rehab-clinics-durban/ - health professionals in America. Anxiety and depression share many common symptoms.
- Feeling easily tired
- Concentration difficulties or mind wandering
- Irritability
- Sleep disturbance: difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep; unsatisfying, restless sleep
- There are other signs that someone may have both anxiety disorder or depression.
- Irrational, constant fear and worry
- You may experience symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, headaches and hot flashes.
- Eating habits that are too or too restrictive
- Persistent feelings or sadness
- Interest in hobbies and other activities is losing.
- Inability to relax
- Panic attacks
- Can depression and anxiety be treated together?
Yes. You don’t have to suffer from either anxiety disorder or depression. Anxiety disorder sufferers should consult a psychiatrist or therapist about their symptoms, and get treatment as soon as possible. Connolly suggests that you seek a comprehensive evaluation from a psychiatrist if you suspect you may have anxiety or depression. She says that it is crucial for those with anxiety and depression to get a thorough assessment in order to rule out bipolar disorder.
According to research, effective treatment strategies often include a combination or medication and talk therapy (psychotherapy). Research published December 2015 in World Journal of Psychiatry . These could include:- Cognitive Behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT teaches people how to overcome negative thoughts and use coping techniques to reduce stress. Harvard Health says that CBT is an proven treatment for depression and anxiety. It is also one of the most well-studied psychotherapies for treating pain.
- Interpersonal Therapy (IPT) IPT examines the relationship between symptoms and interpersonal issues, such as unresolved grievances, conflicting relationships, social isolation, or withdrawal.
- Antidepressant Medication: These include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), like Celexa (citalopram), Prozac, (fluoxetine), Lexapro (ecitalopram), Paxil(paroxetine), Zoloft [sertraline]. SSRIs can be used with CBT or other forms of psychotherapy to treat more severe anxiety and depression. Other options include serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), such as Cymbalta, duloxetine, Effexor and Pristiq (desvenlafaxine).
- Exercise Exercise can help with anxiety and depression, but the reason is still unclear, according to Mayo Clinic. One reason could be that exercise releases positive chemicals in your brain that increase your sense of well-being. It may also help you to forget about your worries, fears and other negative thoughts. No matter the reason, even walking for 10 minutes can help relieve symptoms. ADAA notes.
- Relaxation techniques Mindfulness Meditation — This is a method to train your mind to slow down your thoughts and let go of negativity. It can also help you to calm your body and mind by focusing on your breathing and sitting still. According to large research, it can reduce anxiety and depression symptoms and improve your quality of life.
How to Cope With Anxiety and Depression
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