We all get anxious sometimes. We all have mood swings. Changing moods and anxiousness are normal. After all, being anxious sometimes spurs us on to be prepared for an upcoming task and helps us face danger. On the other hand, depression can slow us down, but it gives us a wonderful opportunity to reflect. In fact, “depression” and “anxiety” have become words we use to describe moods that are so familiar to us.
Anxiety
A person with any anxiety disorder experiences a number of emotional symptoms. These symptoms include feeling apprehensive and irritable while having fears that bad things will happen, either to the person himslef or helself, or the people around him or her. These symptoms also manifest physically — fatigue, sweating, muscle aches, dizziness, palpitations, clammy hands and a dry mouth.
Anxiety causes its sufferers to be practically disabled. Imagine how debilitating some cases can be. Some are extremely afraid to use the elevator, or are too frightened to mingle with other people. In some cases, some people are even too scared to go out of their houses because of the feeling that danger awaits them. The good news is, anxiety is very treatable.
Depression
Statistics show that one in 10 men and one in four women suffer from depression at one point in their lives. The problem is that many of them are not aware of their condition. That’s too bad, because epression can easily be diagnosed and treated.
Depressed people often experience continuing feelings of loneliness, worthlessness, hopelessness, helplessness and irritability. There are also times that they may find themselves unable to keep up with their lifestyle such as household chores, social activities and even personal care. Symptoms include a change of appetite, weght loss or gain, sleeping troubles, lack of focus, inability to make decisions, loss of interest in things previously enjoyed, headache, stomach upset and fatigue.
Treatments
Depression and anxiety are two of the most common mental illnesses in the world. There are many available treatments, though, that sufferers can choose from. The most preferred treatment method is the combination of cognitive-behavioral therapy and medications.
Anti-depressants and anti-anxiety medications alleviate the symptoms, while cognitive-behavioral therapy modifies the way they look at and feel about the things that triggers such symptoms. Self-help and support groups also do wonders in enabling the sufferers to reclaim their lives torn apart by anxiety and depression.