How To Understand The Difference and Similarities Between Anxiety And Depression

One Can Result In The Other

Depression and anxiety often occur together. Though the symptoms can develop at the same time, it's also possible that one can result in the other. If individuals originally have depression, they may feel hopeless and lethargic and uninterested in the world. These feelings can cause their work, school, and social life to suffer, which can, in turn, lead to anxiety. Patients may also be anxious because they're worried they will never feel okay again.

If individuals originally have anxiety, they may feel apprehensive and worried about themselves and the world. These constantly elevated stress levels take a toll on both their physical and mental functioning. This may also lead patients to start avoiding activities they previously enjoyed. When anxiety is having a significant impact on an individual's life, and they're constantly feeling overwhelmed and upset, it's common for that to lead to the same hopelessness found in depression.