A Cambridge University post on the WHO’s (World Health Organisation’s) 2023 global mental health report described depression and anxiety as the two leading categories of mental health disorders, affecting 280 million and 301 million people respectively.
What are the differences between depression and anxiety?
According to health and wellbeing publication WebMd, about 60% of people with anxiety also experience the symptoms of depression.
The main differences are found in the symptoms.
Depression is a persistent feeling of sadness, and you can also experience less energy and lose interest in things you would normally enjoy doing. Some people with depression may also have thoughts of harming themselves.
Anxiety entails fear or worry that you cannot control.
Finding the help that you need.
While many people can feel anxious or depressed at times, if these feelings persist then you need to find help. A visit to your doctor; clinic; contacting your company’s careline or talking to a SADAG (South African Depression and Anxiety Group) psychiatrist or expert can put you on the path to feeling better again.
If medication is prescribed, your pharmacist will make sure that you understand how to take the medication and are aware of any side-effects.
Always remember, mental disorders are not a sign of weakness.
References:
- https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/the-british-journal-of-psychiatry/article/who-world-mental-health%20report-a-call-for-action/D0DC7D90FD2CF0D6199D6D90C0F662E1
- https://www.webmd.com/depression/depression-or-anxiety
- https://www.who.int/news/item/02-03-2022-covid-19-pandemic-triggers-25-increase-in-prevalence-of-anxiety-and-depression-worldwide
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