Are anxiety and depression the same thing?

Anxiety and depression are two distinct issues but can often occur together. This may lead to some confusion about whether they’re related and if they are, in fact, the same. In clinical terms, these two diagnoses are quite different, although some of their symptoms may overlap at times, or they may even happen alongside one another in some cases.

Although, like any other issue, anxiety is unique to each person as to how it presents, some common symptoms of anxiety can include:

• Shaking or trembling
• Feeling tense or nervous
• A sense of impending doom
• Rapid heart rate
• Hyperventilation
• Sweating
• Feeling exhausted
• Irritability or anger
• Difficulty thinking about anything except the present worry
• Difficulty sleeping
• Digestive problems
• Worry that is excessive in comparison to the situation and is difficult to control
• Avoiding things that may trigger anxiety

Depression, like anxiety, comes in many forms and has many specific diagnoses, but some of the common symptoms may include:

• Feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or emptiness
• Crying and tearfulness
• Irritability, frustration, and angry outbursts
• Sleeping too much or not enough
• Lack of energy and exhaustion
• Restlessness or tension
• Slower thinking or speaking than normal
• Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
• Trouble concentrating and memory problems
• Unexplained physical ailments
• Thoughts of death or suicide

If you are experiencing thoughts of suicide, reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255, talk with a trusted friend or family member, or go to the nearest emergency room.

These lists of symptoms make it easy to see that there are some similarities. The restlessness or tension is found in both conditions, as are levels of exhaustion and difficulty concentrating. If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms of either anxiety or depression, it’s important to be evaluated by your doctor. Your doctor will rule out any underlying medical conditions that may be causing the symptoms you’re experiencing. They may also talk with you about medications available to treat anxiety and depression or refer you to a therapist. Both depression and anxiety are commonly treated with therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Early intervention and treatment are important to the management and healing of both issues.