Navigating Depression and Anxiety: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Many of us know someone living with depression and anxiety. You might even be living with one or both yourself. Understanding the causes underlying these mental health challenges is important to help us better support loved ones - or live - with these conditions.

In this article we look at why these two conditions often go hand in hand. And explore some treatments and everyday strategies that can help prevent and manage depression and anxiety. We answer some of the most frequently asked questions on the topic, including: 

• the effects of these mental health challenges on our bodies
• suitable treatment plans, and
• the impact on our longevity and quality of life.

What is ‘depression’ and ‘anxiety’?  

A question that gets asked quite often is “how do depression and anxiety differ,” or, “are they the same thing?” The fact is depression and anxiety are not the same thing. They’re distinct but related mental health conditions that each come with their own unique set of symptoms and challenges. 

Depression is a mental health condition characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, and hopelessness. It can lead to a lack of interest or pleasure in activities that were once enjoyed. People with depression often experience changes in appetite, sleep patterns, energy levels, and concentration. Physical symptoms like fatigue and body aches can also be present. Depression can make daily functioning challenging and, in some cases, can even lead to thoughts of death or suicide. 

Anxiety is a mental health condition marked by excessive worry, fear, and nervousness about future events or situations. It can manifest through physical symptoms such as a racing heartbeat, sweating, trembling, and a sense of impending doom. Anxiety can either be generalised, affecting a person in various situations, or it can be specific to certain triggers like social interactions or phobias. 

Key differences 

Depression primarily revolves around feelings of sadness, while anxiety is centred on feelings of excessive worry and fear. Another difference to note is the emotional response that is present with each of these conditions. With cases of depression, people often feel emotionally numb and have a reduced interest in things they once enjoyed. But with anxiety, the emotional response is heightened, leading to emotions marked by restlessness and a sense of being on edge. In terms of physical symptoms, depression can lead to issues like fatigue, lack of energy, and changes in sleep and appetite. Anxiety on the other hand tends to manifest through physical symptoms such as a racing heartbeat, shortness of breath, and muscle tension.  

Where do depression and anxiety come from? 

You may be wondering where these mental health challenges originate and who’s more likely to develop them. The causes of depression and anxiety are complex and can involve a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors.  

In terms of genetics, individuals with a family history of depression or anxiety may be more likely to develop these conditions themselves. That’s because they may have inherited certain traits that affect the functioning of their neurotransmitters or their overall sensitivity to certain events and stimuli in their environment.   

Traumatic experiences, chronic stress, disruptions to the release of certain brain chemicals, and certain personality traits can also increase the likelihood of developing depression or anxiety. What’s important to remember is that anyone can be affected, and seeking support and treatment can make a significant difference in managing these conditions. 

Where and how to get help with depression and anxiety 

So, what helps with depression and anxiety? Does it last forever or will it go away with the right treatment?  

There are various treatment options for depression and anxiety that can be effective in improving symptoms and enhancing overall wellbeing. These conditions are not necessarily permanent and can often be managed successfully with the right interventions. 

Treatment options for depression 

• Talk therapies like cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT), interpersonal therapy, and psychodynamic therapy can help address negative thought patterns and develop coping strategies
  
• Antidepressant medications, prescribed by a medical professional, can help regulate brain chemistry and alleviate depressive symptoms
• A healthy lifestyle including regular exercise, a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and stress management techniques can be powerful in antidotes to symptoms of depression
• Building a strong social support network, including friends, family, and support groups, can provide emotional assistance

Treatments for anxiety 

• CBT, exposure therapy and relaxation techniques can help individuals manage anxious thoughts, behaviours, and responses
• Anti-anxiety medications can be prescribed to alleviate symptoms and consultations with a medical professional are crucial for severe cases
• Stress reduction activities like mindfulness, deep breathing, and progressive muscle relaxation
• Lifestyle changes like more regular physical activity, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep play a big role in anxiety management
• Building support networks and connecting with others who understand the challenges of anxiety can provide valuable support

The duration and effectiveness of treatment can vary from person to person. Some people may experience shorter episodes of depression or anxiety, while others might have more persistent and severe symptoms. With proper treatment, many people see significant improvements and can lead fulfilling lives.  

Can depression and anxiety affect mortality? 

Another common concern that people may have around depression and anxiety is the question as to how it may impact our longevity. In other words, can depression and anxiety be lethal or detrimental to our health over the long term?  

Depression and anxiety don’t necessarily lead to mortality, at least not in-and-of-themselves. But the symptoms of these conditions – if left untreated – can significantly impact a person’s overall wellbeing and quality of life. And in some cases, can affect longevity. Both depression and anxiety can put a person’s body into ‘survival mode,’ making it harder for some higher-level operations to function optimally. It’s also been found that depression and anxiety can affect cardiovascular health, posing potential risk of developing heart disease in more severe cases. These conditions can also weaken the immune system, making it harder for a person’s body to fight off illnesses and heal from injuries. 

Reflections 

While depression and anxiety can coexist and share some symptoms, they have different emotional focuses, thought patterns, and impact our daily functioning in different ways. It'’s important to recognise that both conditions are serious and can significantly affect a person'’s wellbeing and even their longevity.  

Addressing these conditions through professional help, treatment, healthy habits, and support systems is crucial for managing their potential long-term implications. If you or someone you know is struggling with either of these conditions, it’s important to seek professional help for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.