A Complicated Relationship

With depression, it can seem like life suddenly lost its flavor.

The things you used to do for fun feel like a chore and you’re left with little to no energy to function. For some people, depression has a sudden onset …and for others, the sadness slowly builds over time.

On the other hand, someone suffering from anxiety may find it hard to function each day. All of the fears and ‘what ifs’ people often experience with anxiety can really weigh someone down over time. Anxious thoughts and insecurities can intensify every day leading to emotional fatigue and sometimes depression.

Depression vs. Anxiety. vs. Stress

Many people use the term ‘anxiety and depression’ as if the two are interchangeable. Even though they share some similar symptoms like fatigue, increased irritability, and feeling worthless, they are two entirely different conditions and should be treated as such.

Though there is no sure way for you to self-diagnose your condition, understanding the difference between the two disorders starts by identifying your symptoms. Anxiety often focuses on what could go wrong in the future. Those suffering from anxiety fixate on worrying. They may avoid certain situations that could cause further anxiety or fear. A person suffering from anxiety often experiences a ‘fight or flight’ response accompanied by increased heart rate, trouble breathing, and shaking or sweating.

Alternatively, depressive episodes can be triggered by painful past memories or events. This is especially true for those suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).

Consequently, even good memories can bring on depression when you realize that time is over. At this point, you might notice feelings like guilt, emptiness, and loss.

Tune Into Your Emotions

Start by keeping track of how you are feeling each day. Life is full of daily stressors for all of us. It’s normal to feel burdened by a work deadline. However, once the task is complete, you should experience relief- not ongoing anxiety. Anxiety often manifests in an abundance of energy whereas depression often shows as lethargy or inability to motivate.

Really tune into your emotions by keeping a journal for a week. Write down your thoughts and feelings to better help you (and your care team) understand your feelings and symptoms.

Manage Your Symptoms At TMS Huntsville

Since depression and anxiety have such a complicated relationship, the only way to be properly diagnosed and treated is by seeking professional help. Remember that depression and anxiety are not weaknesses! Don’t try to “push through” feelings of despair, hopelessness, or being overwhelmed.

Untreated mental illnesses can cause frequent stress and affect your overall health and happiness in life. At TMS Huntsville, we’re committed to helping patients in our community find renewed hope and health through restorative state-of-the-art treatments.

Whether it’s through medication, psychotherapy, or TMS Therapy, Dr. Hayden and his team are dedicated to treating each individual with compassion while focusing on patient safety, comfort, and wellness. Addressing mind, body, and spirit components to one’s life may provide
the most effective way of reaching wholeness and health.