How To Understand The Difference and Similarities Between Anxiety And Depression

Similar Physical Changes And Symptoms

It's estimated that somewhere from forty-five to fifty percent of adults with depression or anxiety actually have both conditions at once. In some ways, both issues have similar physical changes and symptoms. This can make it hard to tell whether an individual is experiencing anxiety or depression or both. Patients with depression and anxiety both tend to have trouble sleeping, and they may struggle to stay asleep throughout the night. This can lead to exhaustion and increased stress levels during the day.

Depression and anxiety also both cause irritability and difficulty with emotional regulation. It's also hard to concentrate with both disorders. With anxiety, this is because increased stress levels inhibit memory function. With depression, it's because the brain isn't making the same connections at the same speed as a neurotypical brain.