How to Tell if You’re Anxious or Depressed 

Sometimes, depression and anxiety can be tough to identify. Feeling down or on edge can sometimes feel like your normal, or you might think it’s how everyone feels. And when you are in an anxious and depressed mind, it can even feel like you deserve to feel bad. These feelings are common and by working with yourself and a counselor, you can begin to help identify and heal the underlying causes of depression and/ or anxiety.  

So, how do you know if you have depression or anxiety? First off, working with a counselor is the sure way to accurately diagnose your specific symptoms. If you’re ready to take the next step in caring for your mental and emotional health, the Y has counseling available for all ages.  

According to the National Alliance on Mental Health, depression can present different symptoms, depending on the person. But for most people, depressive disorder changes how they function day-to-day, and typically for more than two weeks. Common symptoms include: 

• Changes in sleep 
• Changes in appetite 
• Lack of concentration 
• Loss of energy 
• Lack of interest in activities 
• Hopelessness or guilty thoughts 
• Changes in movement (less activity or agitation) 
• Physical aches and pains 
• Suicidal thoughts 

If you’re wondering if you have an anxiety disorder, consider the following symptoms:  

Emotional symptoms: 

• Feelings of apprehension or dread 
• Feeling tense or jumpy 
• Restlessness or irritability 
• Anticipating the worst and being watchful for signs of danger 
• Physical symptoms: 
• Pounding or racing heart and shortness of breath 
• Sweating, tremors and twitches 
• Headaches, fatigue and insomnia 
• Upset stomach, frequent urination or diarrhea 

Just like depression, anxiety has no one-size-fits all cure. Each individual has their own path to recovery and a therapist serves as a guide to healing.  

Depression and anxiety are both normal human feelings in the short term, but over time, they can become incredibly harmful to you and those around you. If you believe you are suffering from depression or anxiety, know that you are not alone and there is a pathway to feeling better.

To find a good counselor for you or a loved one, get started today by filling out the Y’s counseling referral form. 

 
Resources for learning more:

• Anxiety Disorders
• Ways to Cope With Anxiety
• Depression