Describe the symptoms of depression and explain how depression differs from feelings of sadness or describe the symptoms of clinical anxiety and explain how clinical anxiety differs from feelings of worry.
Research at least two strategies for combating symptoms of depression or anxiety. Utilize only peer-reviewed journals for your research. Share how your chosen strategies could also be utilized as preventative or protective strategies to implement the next time you encounter worry or sadness.
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Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in activities. Some additional symptoms of depression may include:
Changes in appetite and weight
Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
Fatigue or low energy
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
Thoughts of death or suicide
It is important to note that everyone experiences feelings of sadness or disappointment from time to time. However, these feelings usually pass relatively quickly and do not interfere with an individual’s daily life. In contrast, depression is a persistent and severe mood disorder that can significantly impact an individual’s ability to function and carry out daily activities.
Clinical anxiety is a mental health disorder characterized by excessive and persistent worry and fear about everyday situations. Some additional symptoms of anxiety may include:
Restlessness or feeling on edge
Difficulty concentrating
Irritability
Muscle tension
Difficulty sleeping
Sweating or heart palpitations
Like with depression, it is normal to experience feelings of worry or stress from time to time. However, clinical anxiety is a persistent and excessive worry that interferes with an individual’s daily life.
Both depression and clinical anxiety can be treated with a combination of therapy and medication. It is important to seek help from a mental health professional if you or someone you know is experiencing persistent and severe symptoms of depression or anxiety.
