The world of therapy has come a long way when it comes to mood disorders. Many clients who enter treatment for addiction issues end up suffering from an undiagnosed or untreated mental disorder. Depression and anxiety are two common issues faced by many people throughout the country. We’re going to take a more in-depth look at the differences between depression vs. anxiety and how essential it is to get appropriate treatment for these disorders.
Do you or a loved one need an anxiety treatment program? Call us today at 1.844.675.1022 for more information.
What is Depression?
Depression, also referred to as major depressive disorder, is a medical illness that negatively affects the perceptions of individuals. That, in turn, influences your thought processes and how you interact with the world in general. The symptoms of depression vary depending on the severity of a person’s illness.
Signs of Depression
- Constant feelings of sadness
- Weight gain or loss that’s not tied to a diet
- Loss of interest in what were once enjoyable activities
- Lack of energy
- Feelings of fatigue
- Trouble making decisions or concentrating on what’s in front of you
- Development of sleep disorders
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide
While many people may have periods of self-doubt or sadness, depression goes beyond that, which is one difference between depression vs. anxiety. Clinical depression typically lasts for around two weeks. You should have yourself diagnosed by a mental health professional if you suspect you suffer from anxiety or depression. That will allow you to receive proper treatment.
What is Anxiety?
Anxiety is an emotion people often experience when faced with a stressful situation. The difference between regular feelings of anxiety and an anxiety disorder is the scope of the emotions experienced. A person dealing with an actual anxiety disorder may experience some of the following symptoms in situations that don’t call for an extreme reaction:
- Edginess
- Feelings of restlessness
- Elevated irritability
- Problems concentrating
- Sleep problems
Depression vs. Anxiety Disorders
People suffering from a general anxiety disorder (GAD) have trouble with day to day functions. Their anxiety levels may get to the point that even leaving the house may cause them issues. Below you will find a list of common anxiety disorders in addition to GAD.
- Panic disorder
- Agoraphobia
- Phobias
- Social anxiety disorder
- Separation anxiety disorder
A variety of different factors can lead to the development of an anxiety disorder, including:
- Stresses from a person’s environment, including family problems or work issues
- Having a family history of anxiety disorders
- The side effects of a medication to treat a condition
- Alterations in a person’s brain chemistry, due to hormonal changes or using illicit substances
The main difference between depression vs. anxiety is the heightened reactions produced in a person vs. the more sluggish pace seen in those suffering from depression. Both mood disorders can be treated with a combination of behavioral therapy, psychotherapy, and medication.
When it comes to co-occurring disorders and depression vs. anxiety, there’s no difference. Substance use disorders exacerbate both depression and anxiety, and the conditions are also causally related. That is why dual diagnosis treatment is necessary to treat these co-occurring conditions. With dual diagnosis treatment, both conditions are treated and are less likely to recur or cause the other condition to recur.
Depression vs. Anxiety Treatment at Promises Five Palms
Dual Diagnosis Treatment is often done in an inpatient setting, which means that the person will stay in a hospital or other treatment facility while they are receiving treatment. Inpatient treatment can be very helpful for people who have a severe mental illness and a severe substance abuse problem. Inpatient treatment can also be very helpful for people who are at risk of harming themselves or others.
Outpatient dual diagnosis treatment is also available. Outpatient treatment means that the person will not have to stay in a hospital or other treatment facility. In fact, outpatient treatment can be just as effective as inpatient treatment, but it can be less expensive. Outpatient treatment can also be more convenient for people who do not want to or cannot stay in a hospital or treatment facility.
Promises Five Palms offers clients the chance to receive help with mental health issues in a relaxed, summer camp setting. Our staff works with each client to craft individualized treatment plans, regardless of whether you suffer from depression vs. anxiety. At Promises Five Palms, our therapy offerings include:
- Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy
- Dialectical Behavior Therapy
- Trauma Therapy
- Individual Therapy
- Group Therapy
Our facility also offers support to those suffering from substance abuse and addiction issues, along with mental disorders. Find out more about the Promises Five Palms admission process by contacting us at 1.844.675.1022.
