Depression & Anxiety Information

Depression & Anxiety Information
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The Anxiety Disorders Association of America notes that more than one half of individuals diagnosed with depression also have an anxiety disorder. People who believe they may have an anxiety disorder, a depressive disorder or both should call a doctor or mental health professional for diagnosis and treatment options.

Anxiety Occurrence

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States, according to the ADAA, affecting an estimated 40 million American adults.

Depression Occurrence

Major depressive disorder affects 14.8 million adults in a given year, according to the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance (DBSA). As many as one in 33 children and one in eight adolescents are clinically depressed.

Types of Depressive Disorders

Major depressive disorder, dysthymia, psychotic depression, postpartum disorder, seasonal affective disorder and bipolar disorder are common types of depressive disorders.

Types of Anxiety Disorders

Generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, social anxiety disorder and phobias are common types of anxiety disorders.

Common Symptoms of Depression

Persistent sadness, sleep problems, guilt, anger, irritability, changes in appetite or weight, hopelessness, difficulty concentrating, unexplained aches and pains, loss of interest in pleasurable activities and suicidal thoughts are some common symptoms of Depression, according to the DBSA.

Common Symptoms of Anxiety

Constant worrying, irrational fears and uncontrollable anxiety are common symptoms of an anxiety disorder, according to the ADAA. Physical symptoms, such as gastrointestinal problems or an increase in breathing or heart rate, are also common.

References

Article reviewed by Lauren Fritsky Last updated on: Jul 12, 2010

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