Depression vs. Anxiety Disorders
What Are Some Similarities, and Differences?
Here is some brief information for Pastors and Lay-Counselors to help in seeing the differences and similarities in Depression and Anxiety Disorders. Here are some symptoms that are common to see in both Depression and Anxiety:
- Sleep Disturbances: often waking up early, normal sleep cycles don’t happen to one rarely wakes up refreshed, rarely deep sleep, often awake for hours.
- Poor Concentration: trouble focusing, brain fog, scattered.
- Increased Fatigue: Cannot “rest” and “relax,” little energy, slowed movements which are often called “psycho-motor retardation.”
- Psycho-motor Agitation: In both cases the sympathetic nervous system is over-activated and stress hormones are fully released. This can be the pacing, wringing of the hands, or easily startled responses.
Here are some symptoms associated with Depression:
- Depressed or Sad Moods
- Loss of Interest in Things They Used to Like to Do
- Inability to Feel Pleasure or Joy
- Feelings of Guilt or Worthlessness
- Hopelessness or Helplessness
- Withdrawing from Others, including Loved Ones
- Appetite Changes, Gaining or Losing Weight
- Self-Injury, Cutting, Suicidal Thinking, Suicide Attempts
Here are some symptoms associated with Anxiety Disorders:
- Excessive Worry or Anxiety,
- Irritability or Anger, Easily Startled Followed by Anger Response
- Muscle Tension, Stressed
- Obsessions or Compulsions
- Panic Attacks, Fear, Phobic Avoidance of Places or Things
Call our office to set up an appointment to get started with helping your loved one overcome these problems. (661) 972-5953 for counseling in Tehachapi or Bakersfield. Learn more at http://DouglasCowan.me .