Do I Have Anxiety, Depression, or Both?

Depression and anxiety share many of the same symptoms, but is it possible to have both at the same time? This blog breaks down the differences, similarities, and where they overlap so you can get the help you need.

Anxiety and depression are separate mental health conditions, but they often present similar symptoms. In fact, many people experience both at the same time, so it’s important to understand the differences to improve your mental health and feel your best.

At CareStop Behavioral Health in Warner Robins, Georgia, Terrill Cooper, DNP, APRN, FNP-C, PMHNP-BC, CMNCS, ADHD-CCSP, and our team specialize in treating depression and anxiety.

Keep reading to learn how these conditions are alike, how they differ, and how we can help you feel better.

Anxiety vs. depression: What’s the difference?

Anxiety and depression share similar symptoms, but they’re different things. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Anxiety

Anxiety is a mental health condition characterized by excessive worry, racing thoughts, and physical symptoms like a rapid heartbeat and shortness of breath.

Everyone feels anxious occasionally, usually because of a significant event, like getting married or speaking in front of an audience.

However, if your symptoms occur regularly and interfere with your quality of life, you may have a generalized anxiety disorder (GAD).

Anxiety can be general or specific. For example, some people only experience anxiety related to a certain fear, like spiders.

Depression

Depression is a mental health condition that causes long-term feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or disinterest in activities you used to enjoy.

Like anxiety, most people feel sad from time to time, but if these feelings last months or even years, seeking support is important for your outlook and well-being.

Despite their similarities, depression and anxiety are different.

Anxiety tends to present feelings of nervousness and concern, whereas depression is more depleting and can quickly sap your energy.

Is it possible to have depression and anxiety at the same time?

Yes. Many people with depression also experience anxiety and vice versa. In fact, research suggests that about 60% of people with depression also have anxiety.

Because the conditions overlap, it can be difficult to recognize the signs. However, telltale symptoms of combined anxiety and depression include:

Persistent worry
Irritability
Sleep disturbances
Appetite changes
Fatigue and lack of energy
Difficulty concentrating or remembering things
Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy

As the conditions become more prevalent, you might also experience overwhelming feelings, relationship problems, or sudden outbursts of anger or crying.

How to tell if you have anxiety, depression, or both

The only way to know for sure if you have anxiety, depression, or both is to meet with a qualified mental health professional like Terrill. However, if you aren’t yet ready to take that step, we recommend monitoring how you feel in a daily journal.

More specifically, try tracking how you feel several times a day: Once in the morning (shortly after waking up), again around lunch or midday, and once more in the evening before bed.

When you journal, ask yourself questions like:

Are my thoughts racing? (anxiety) Or do I feel drained or numb? (depression)
Do I feel tense and overwhelmed? Or am I uninterested and trying to tune out?
Am I avoiding certain things because I’m scared, tired, or both?

The goal is to get your feelings out of your head and down on paper. Don’t judge how you feel. Just observe and reflect.

If these exercises leave you feeling confused, an online screening tool, like the one provided by Mental Health America, can help you make sense of your findings.

When to seek professional help

If you have mild symptoms of depression or anxiety, it’s normal to try and navigate them on your own. However, if your symptoms last longer than a month and impact your ability to work or build healthy relationships, asking for help is essential.

Don’t feel ashamed or embarrassed. Various treatment options exist, including counseling (talk therapy), medication, and lifestyle changes.

We can make personalized care recommendations to improve your mood, outlook, and quality of life.

Request a mental health consultation today!

If you feel anxious, depressed, or both, request an appointment by calling our office today at 478-324-8216 or using the online booking tool. Asking for help is the first step toward the relief you need.