Depression and anxiety are not uncommon in today’s society. Many people will experience some degree of one or both of these in their lifetime. It is important to address the origins and not ignore the presence of depression and anxiety since they prevent you from living fully and can transform into other more difficult obstacles to address.
What to look for
Depression and Anxiety Disorders disrupt daily life and can leave people with very negative feelings towards themselves that also impact loved ones around them. Below you’ll find helpful information for what to look for if you think you may be experiencing these disorders or know somebody who is.
Depression
Depression is far more than simply feeling unhappy and discontent. It is a serious mental illness shared by over 20 million in the United States alone.
Symptoms
Those suffering from depression typically experience:
- Sadness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in activities previously enjoyed
- Change in weight
- Difficulty sleeping or oversleeping
- Energy loss
- Feeling of worthlessness
- Thoughts of death or suicide
(Source: www.mentalhealth.gov)
Anxiety
Those battling anxiety disorders typically experience physical reactions to objects or situations; physical reactions such as a rapid heartbeat and sweating. These objects or situations cause people to respond with fear or dread.
Symptoms
An anxiety disorder is diagnosed if a person:
- Has an inappropriate response to a situation
- Cannot control the response
- Has an altered way of life due to the anxiety
Anxiety disorders include:
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
- Panic Disorder
- Phobias
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
(Source: www.mentalhealth.gov)