The Signs and Symptoms of Depression and Anxiety
Depression and anxiety disorder are two of the most prevalent mental illnesses. There can be many causes of depression and anxiety disorder, and either can affect anyone at any point in their lives. This makes it even more necessary to know the signs and symptoms of depression and anxiety disorder.
However, it is important to know that you are not alone. There is always help for anxiety and depression. If you know the signs, you can get yourself or someone you love help before it’s too late.
Do I Have Depression?
According to the National Institute of Mental Health resources on depression, it is the most common and serious mood disorder. Depression can happen at any age and has been observed in young children, teens, midlife adults, and late-life adults. Symptoms can hinder the way one thinks, feels, and manages activities of daily living. For diagnosis, symptoms must be present for 2 weeks most of the day and week.
Signs and Symptoms of Depression
Symptoms of depression can range in severity but include:
- Persistent, sad, or anxious mood
- Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
- Irritability
- Guilt, worthlessness, helplessness
- Loss of interest in activities
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Restlessness
- Difficulty concentrating
- Sleep disturbances
- Change in appetite or weight gain
- Thoughts of death or suicide Physical aches and pains
Do I have Anxiety Disorder?
According to the National Institute of Mental Health on anxiety, it can be persistent and increase in intensity. Anxiety like depression can impact our thinking patterns, feelings, and ability to manage daily activities. To be diagnosed with an Anxiety disorder, symptoms must persist most days for 6 months.
Signs and Symptoms of Anxiety Disorder
Symptoms of anxiety can range in severity but include:
- Restlessness
- Fatigued
- Difficulty with concentration
- Irritability
- Body tension
- Inability to control worry
- Sleep disturbances
- Shakes
- Sweats
- Shortness of breath
- Avoiding tasks
Having Suicidal Thoughts or Ideations
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, recognizing keywords and behaviors can help with suicidal ideation and prevention.
Words and Phrases to Look Out For:
- “I want to die” or “I want to kill myself”
- Indicating serious hopelessness and lack of need for living
- Preparing a plan of action with lethal methods
- Feeling unbearable pain
- Using drugs or alcohol excessively
- Anxiousness or agitation
- Withdrawn from
- Giving away important possessions
- Saying goodbye to friends and family
5 Steps for Prevention:
- Asking the question: “Are you thinking about killing yourself?”
- Keep the individual safe by restricting access to lethal items.
- Be there and just listen.
- Help them contact the Suicide Hotline- 1-800-273-8255 5. Follow up and stay in touch after the crisis.
Seeing signs and symptoms of depression and anxiety? Malvern Behavioral Health is here to help. Learn more about the special resources and treatments we’ve created to help support young adults between ages 18 to 26.
Written by: Sarah Roberts