Depression With Anxious Distress

Depression with anxious distress is a state of mental health in which an individual experiences both depression and anxiety at the same time or in close proximity. Anxiety is an emotion characterized by feelings of tension, worried thoughts and physical changes like increased blood pressure. Meanwhile, depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness, low self-esteem and loss of interest in activities. While they are different mental health issues, they can also occur at the same time.

Depression with anxious distress is a fairly common mental health disorder, with around one in six people in the US experiencing this combination of depressive and anxiety symptoms. Unfortunately, this combination can make it more difficult to identify the symptoms and seek treatment. As such, it is important to be aware of this condition in order to understand your own mental health and gain the necessary help when needed.

Symptoms of Depression With Anxious Distress

The specific signs and symptoms of depression with anxious distress vary from person to person. However, some of the common signs and symptoms include:

• • Depressive symptoms such as persistent feeling of sadness or emptiness, loss of interest in activities or hobbies, low self-esteem, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, and difficulty falling or staying asleep.

 

• • Anxious symptoms such as constant worrying, restlessness and fatigue, difficulty concentrating, irritability, muscle tension, and physical symptoms that can include dizziness, chills, rapid heart rate, and headaches.

 

• • Thoughts of suicide or self-harm.

 

If you believe you are experiencing symptoms of depression with anxious distress, it is important to seek professional help.

Causes of Depression With Anxious Distress

The exact cause of depression with anxious distress is unknown. However, there are a number of factors that can contribute to its development, such as:

• • Biological Factors: Research suggests that individuals who have depression with anxious distress may have an imbalance in certain neurotransmitters in the brain, such as serotonin.

 

• • Genetic Factors: Mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety can run in families, suggesting that genetics may play a role.

 

• • Environmental Factors: Traumatic events such as physical or sexual abuse, domestic violence, or collective trauma, can acutely trigger anxious and depressive symptoms. Additionally, stressful life events or an isolated and lonely lifestyle can contribute to the development of depression with anxious distress.

 

Risk Factors for Depression With Anxious Distress

In addition to the causes of depression with anxious distress, there are also certain risk factors which can make an individual more likely to develop the condition. These include:

• • Age: While this mental health issue can occur at any age, it is more common in young adults.

 

• • Gender: Women are more likely to experience depression with anxious distress than men.

 

• • Family History: Individuals with a family history of depression and anxiety are more likely to experience this combination of mental health issues.

 

• • Stressful Life Experiences: Experiences such as job loss, the death of a loved one, financial strain, relationship issues, etc. can all increase the likelihood of developing depression with anxious distress.

 

Treatment for Depression With Anxious Distress

If you believe you may be experiencing symptoms of depression with anxious distress, it is important to seek professional help as soon as possible. Treatment for this condition usually involves psychotherapy, medication, or a combination of the two. Some common types of treatment include:

• • Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy is a form of counseling that helps individuals gain insight into their condition, identify and cope with underlying issues, and develop strategies to manage symptoms. Common types of psychotherapy include cognitive-behavioral therapy and interpersonal therapy.

 

• • Medication: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants are two types of medications that are commonly prescribed for depression with anxious distress.

 

• • Alternative Therapies: Certain alternative therapies can also be helpful, such as mindfulness, yoga, and acupuncture.

 

It is important to discuss the best treatment plan with your healthcare provider.

Conclusion

Depression with anxious distress is a mental health issue in which an individual experiences both depression and anxiety at the same time or in close proximity. While the exact cause of this condition is unknown, certain risk factors and treatments are available. It is important to be aware of this condition in order to gain the help and support needed.