Depression & Anxiety: What are the differences?

Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is best described by exaggerated & continual worry about a number of different things. People with GAD find it challenging to control their worry. Their worries could be about things like money, family, work, or health.

GAD is diagnosed when a person finds it challenging to control their worries for at least 6 months and has more than 3 symptoms. The common symptoms include problems sleeping, feeling weak or tired, increased heart rate, feeling nervous/on edge, trouble concentrating, and possible stomach issues.

As far as depression, the most frequently diagnosed form of depression is a major depressive disorder. One of the symptoms must be an overwhelming feeling of sadness or a loss of interest & pleasure in normal activities that once brought them joy. To be diagnosed with depression, one must have at least 5 of the 9 known symptoms. The other known symptoms are thoughts of death/suicide, insomnia or oversleeping, weight loss/no appetite or weight gain/overeating, no energy, irritability, feelings of guilt, hopelessness, and no interest in hobbies or activities.