Anxiety and depression are two distinct mental health conditions, although they can

often coexist or share similarities. Here are some key differences between anxiety and
depression:

1. Emotional State:
 Anxiety: Anxiety is characterized by excessive worry, fear, or unease.
People with anxiety may experience constant feelings of tension,
restlessness, irritability, and a sense of impending danger or doom.
 Depression: Depression typically involves feelings of sadness,
hopelessness, and a loss of interest or pleasure in activities. Individuals
with depression may experience persistent feelings of emptiness, guilt,
worthlessness, or pessimism.
2. Cognitive Patterns:
 Anxiety: Anxiety often involves racing thoughts, excessive rumination, and
a tendency to anticipate negative outcomes. Individuals with anxiety may
have difficulty concentrating or making decisions due to their
preoccupation with worries.
 Depression: Depression can lead to cognitive symptoms such as difficulty
concentrating, memory problems, and impaired decision-making.
Depressed individuals may have negative and self-critical thoughts, a
pessimistic outlook on life, and a reduced ability to experience pleasure.
3. Physical Symptoms:
 Anxiety: Anxiety can manifest with physical symptoms such as rapid
heartbeat, shortness of breath, sweating, trembling, muscle tension,
headaches, and gastrointestinal issues like stomachaches or digestive
problems.
 Depression: Depression may be accompanied by physical symptoms such
as fatigue, low energy, changes in appetite or weight, sleep disturbances
(insomnia or excessive sleep), body aches, and headaches.
4. Duration and Triggers:
 Anxiety: Anxiety can occur in response to specific triggers or situations,
such as social interactions (social anxiety) or specific phobias. It can also be
more generalized, with persistent anxiety across various aspects of life.
 Depression: Depression tends to persist for an extended period, typically
lasting for at least two weeks or more. It may arise without an apparent
trigger or can be triggered by specific life events such as loss, trauma, or
major life changes.