Are depression and anxiety the same thing?

While anxiety and depression have some similar symptoms, share some biological underpinnings, and can co-occur, they are different in the way that they've experienced. They each have distinct psychological features.

People with anxiety sometimes:

• Worry about the future
• Experience racing thoughts
• Avoid situations that trigger anxiety or fear
• Think about death, but in terms of fear

When you experience anxiety, you are typically focused on worries in a way that doesn't line up with the actual risk in a particular situation or event.

People with depression often:

• Feel hopeless
• Believe nothing will help
• Feel worthless
• Think about death with an emphasis on life not being worth living or with a guilt focus of being a burden for others

There are also physical differences in symptoms of anxiety and depression. They can both interfere with engaging in daily tasks and become overwhelming for the person, but there are some distinct differences.

Physical aspects of anxiety include:

• Difficulty concentrating
• Difficulty falling asleep, or difficulty staying asleep
• Dizziness
• Gastrointestinal issues
• Rapid heartbeat, rising blood pressure
• Sweating
• Muscle tension and spasms
• Shortness of breath

Physical aspects of depression may include:

• Difficulty focusing
• Lack of energy
• Change in appetite
• Moving or talking more slowly than usual
• Aches and pains with no cause
• Sleeping more or less

For each set of markers for anxiety and depression, things can vary depending on the type of depression or anxiety, as there are multiple specific diagnoses. It’s also possible to have depression alongside anxiety or depression or anxiety alongside another problem.

It’s completely normal to experience anxiety and depression situationally, from time to time. They can be completely normal reactions to situations like job interviews or losing a relationship, for example. That doesn’t mean that you wouldn’t benefit from therapy or other interventions; it just means that some ups and downs are normal to experience.

The severity of symptoms is important to understand. When things begin to interfere with daily life, it’s time to talk with your doctor or mental health provider about what you’re experiencing. Speaking with those closest to you to find out if they’ve noticed anything different in your behavior can help clarify things as well. Keeping a journal of moods, sleep patterns, and symptoms you experience can be very helpful.

Treatment for anxiety and depression can include counseling (therapy), medication, or both. Some lifestyle changes may be helpful to your wellness. These include getting plenty of sleep, avoiding stimulants like caffeine, spending time outdoors, keeping your connections with friends and family healthy, and incorporating exercise along with meditation or mindfulness activities.

If you’ve noticed a change and are experiencing problems that interfere with your ability to function in relationships, school, or at work, contact your doctor or a licensed counselor for help determining what you’re experiencing and a clear treatment plan.