Anxiety and Depression

Definition  & Resources

Depression and anxiety can occur at the same time. In fact, it’s been estimated that 45 percent of people with one mental health condition meet the criteria for two or more disorders. One study found that half of people with either anxiety or depression have the other condition. All people have their ups and downs, but if your child is unusually irritable, sad or withdrawn for a prolonged period of time, he/she may be showing signs of depression.

Depression is more than moodiness — it can affect all parts of a child’s life, including behavior, appetite, energy level, sleep patterns, relationships and academic performance.

Although each condition has its own causes, they may share similar symptoms and treatments.

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Anxiety Basics

• Separation anxiety disorder

• Social anxiety disorder

• Selective mutism

• Generalized anxiety disorder

• Panic disorder

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder

• Specific phobia

• Treatment for Anxiety

Depression

Feeling down, sad, or upset is normal. It can be concerning feeling that way for several days or weeks on end.

Physical symptoms and behavioral changes caused by depression include:

• decreased energy, chronic fatigue, or feeling sluggish frequently

• difficulty concentrating, making decisions, or recalling

• pain, aches, cramps, or gastrointestinal problems without any clear cause

• changes in appetite or weight

• difficulty sleeping, waking early, or oversleeping

Emotional symptoms of depression include:

• loss of interest or no longer finding pleasure in activities or hobbies

• persistent feelings of sadness, anxiety, or emptiness

• feeling hopeless or pessimistic

• anger, irritability, or restlessness

• feeling guilty or experiencing feelings of worthlessness or helplessness

• thoughts of death or suicide

• suicide attempts