Depression and Anxiety

By Dr. Larry Cohen, Therapist and Life Coach in Marlton NJ and Voorhees, NJ (856) 352-5428 ContacT New Jersey TLC

Depression and anxiety are two of the most prevalent mental health disorders. It affects 3% of the population in the US, but only 43% of those suffering receive treatment. Although different, they often occur together. Depression and anxiety can be mild, moderate, or severe and frequently change intensity over time. Here, I aim to describe the signs of depression and anxiety so that you can better understand the disorders and whether you are suffering from one or both.

Depression

One of the hallmark signs of depression is persistent sadness or low mood that lasts for an extended period, typically more than two weeks. You may feel hopeless, helpless, or worthless, which can lead to suicidal ideation, loss of interest in living life, or feeling exhausted and barely able to complete daily tasks. Having the inability to experience pleasure is called anhedonia, and it is a sign that you may be depressed.

In addition to being in a low emotional state, physical signs of depression may also occur. Things like changes in appetite and weight loss can occur. You may overeat as a means of coping, or you can lose your appetite entirely. Sleep problems, such as insomnia or hypersomnia (sleeping too much), may also occur.  You may have problems falling or staying asleep or feeling fatigued despite sleeping too much.

Anxiety

Anxiety often presents as excessive worry and fear. When you are struggling with anxiety, you may find yourself constantly preoccupied with potential future events, leading to rumination that makes your anxiety worse. Anxiety can make it hard to concentrate at work or home. Anxiety affects your feelings of self-worth; you may feel like a fraud at work or undeserving of success in your life.

Physical symptoms of anxiety include restlessness, rapid heart rate, sweating, or stomach issues. These problems can sometimes lead you to seek medical help. For example, you may mistake your stomach problems as a physical problem when, in fact, it is being caused by anxiety.

Both depression and anxiety can lead you to hide - not leaving your home. However, avoiding others and social situations will increase both depression and anxiety. I say that isolation feeds depression. But, you may struggle to get the motivation to see anyone. I say push through it and call and see your loved ones. This helps you fight off feeling depressed or anxious.

Cognitive problems can also be significant when assessing these mental health disorders. When you are depressed, you may have trouble focusing, making decisions, or remembering things. Those with anxiety may experience racing thoughts, making it hard to concentrate on any task. Cognitive problems can impact your work and personal life substantially.

Awareness of these signs is the first step toward seeking help. When you recognize these symptoms, it’s time to work with a therapist in talk therapy and even a psychiatrist to receive medication. Early intervention can make a significant difference, improving your quality of life.

Understanding the signs of depression and anxiety is vital for fostering a supportive environment where you feel safe to seek help. By recognizing the emotional, physical, and cognitive problems that are the hallmarks of these disorders, you can treat them quickly. Don’t suffer when you don’t have to. Seek professional help if depression and anxiety appear.