In this age, Millenials are vocal to express their struggles with mental health. The most common disorders that many people know are anxiety and depression. Many of them are also confused about the differences between the two mental health problems because both have similar symptoms.
Anxiety vs. Depression
People are now aware of how these two mental health problems can ruin lives. Thanks to social media channels. These platforms allow people with mental disorders to express their feelings and to spread awareness. However, not all people are knowledgeable about the differences between these two psychological problems.
A person with anxiety has a chance to develop depression and vice versa. According to Court Nichols, a licensed program director for alcohol rehab in Houston, about 50% of people diagnosed with depression were also diagnosed with anxiety and a huge contributing factor is substance abuse. Although they have several similarities, Smith said it is essential that a patient gets the appropriate treatment.
Depression Symptoms
- depressed mood
- often move slowly
- lack of energy
- find difficulty to concentrate
- insomnia or hypersomnia
- losing interest to do enjoyable activities
- increase/decrease in appetite
- feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- suicidal thoughts
Anxiety Common Symptoms
- often worry
- irritability
- restlessness
- being easily fatigued
- can’t concentrate on doing tasks
- having sleep problems
Compare the symptoms of anxiety and depression. Similar symptoms are sleep problems, trouble concentrating, and fatigue. Irritability may also manifest as symptoms to anxiety and depression, according to Smith. However, people with depression usually move slowly, and their reactions appear to be dulled. Meanwhile, those with anxiety tend to be more panic because they struggle to manage their racing thoughts.
People who have experienced these symptoms most days for more than six months, and these affect their lives – it is advisable to see a mental health specialist. There is a chance they may receive a diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder. Anxiety disorders have different types. Among them are separation anxiety, panic disorder, or phobias, etc.,
Five simple ways to fight anxiety
Whether you have confirmed anxiety, depression, or stress, you deserve to know how to calm yourself whenever you feel unwanted emotion. These simple ways are not medical treatments. However, it will help you to deal with the emotional problem.
Exercise
One of the signs you have depression disorder is movement is becoming slow. You can avoid this problem by exercising and make it part of your daily routine.
Due to busy schedules, many people have no time to do physical activities, and this could be a reason why the obesity rate soars high every year. Although it is not easy, try to find time to exercise, and soon you will discover the great benefits.
By starting to do basic easy exercises, you may soon do more. Exercising helps ease your feelings of anxiety and boost your sense of well-being. If you’ve not been active for so long, try three to five 30-minute workout sessions a week. Choose exercises you think you can do for a month so you won’t feel tired and avoid feeling discouragement to continue.
Get enough sleep
You deserved beauty rest after a long day. If you think you need a nap, do it. Most doctors recommend eight hours of sleep. However, there are times it is challenging to fall asleep due to anxiety. Since it is not yet confirmed you have anxiety or depression, create a routine to help, you catch your sleep.
Fall asleep quickly with the help of meditation and yoga
Believe it or not, exercising may help you to put your sleeping habit into a routine. Apart from that, yoga and meditation are great tools to calm your mind and body.
The main reason why it is difficult for some people to sleep is stress. Some experts suggest the practice of breathing patterns and body movements to release it. Yoga includes breathing exercises, which help release stress and tension accumulated in the body.
Meditation is also a good practice because it reduces stress and controls anxiety. It can also help improve memory and fight addiction problems.
Get the best-weighted blanket for anxiety
Most people want to be hugged and share hugs. Experts agree that hugs from people you love help reduce stress and ease tension. It can also bring happiness to people.
Although you can get hugs every time, however, there are times when you need one, it is not accessible, especially during nighttime. The best solution is to get the best weighted blanket for anxiety. This blanket is heavier than the others, which typically weighs from 4 to 30 pounds.
Reduce caffeine and alcohol intake
It is hard for coffee lovers to avoid drinking coffee. However, taking any kinds of caffeinated drinks should be taken moderately-same with consuming alcoholic beverages.
The reason why people drink caffeinated drinks is to keep them awake. However, taking too much may lead to some health issues, including difficulty in sleeping and make anxiety kick into overdrive.
Caffeine is not only present in coffee, but also in diet pills, soda, chocolates, and tea. If you can’t avoid consuming these, it is better to cut back.
Learn to schedule worry time
This tip sounds weird, but some doctors advise patients to pick a time to think about your fears on purpose. Take 30 minutes to reflect on the things that bother you. Although it has been advised by doctors, avoid dwelling on “what-ifs,” but focus on the reason(s) that causes anxiety.
Find the triggers
By discovering what triggers your anxiety, you will find ways to handle it. If you are highly dependent on alcohol and drugs, make sure to consult with a professional or go into an alcohol rehab in Houston. Start with thinking of times and places where you find yourself feeling most anxious. Write them down and see the patterns. Analyze which of them should be avoided, but not all. Some of them should be solved or confronted.
Be active in the community
There are times you want to isolate yourself because of the awful feelings. However, this way will not help you fight the monster inside you. Negative thoughts are running around your head, and you can avoid it by making yourself busy for something worthy or doing your hobbies.
By volunteering to help the community, you will feel you have achieved something right because you help other people. Apart from that, you will establish connections that will support you soon.
Consult a doctor
This is the safest way to treat anxiety. Medical professionals know how to help you deal with your mental health. Whether it is depression, anxiety, or both, a doctor will recommend the appropriate medication, therapy, or a combination of the two.
Be aware of the symptoms. You can track it by keeping a log of how you feel each day. This way may provide some benefits to the diagnostic process.
Never be afraid to speak up and ask your doctor whether they think you have depression, anxiety, or both. Open up the concerns that have been bothering you for so long. By being honest, your doctor can help you understand the treatment for you and find ways on how to manage your symptoms.
Credits to the Expert
Court Nichols is the program director for detox and addiction rehab treatment facilities. He helps others focus on a lifestyle of sober living with a healthy diet and exercises and many other mental and physical health habits. Check more on Youtube.