Anxiety vs depression: Do I have one or both?
In a Nutshell
Anxiety is marked by excessive worry or fear, while depression brings persistent sadness and loss of interest in activities you normally enjoy.
Anxiety may feel like dread, while depression may feel like numbness or detachment from reality.
The common symptoms of anxiety and depression overlap, making them hard to tell apart.
About 50% of people with major depression also have an anxiety disorder.
If you’ve been struggling with symptoms of anxiety or depression for more than two weeks, consider speaking with a GP or therapist for proper support.
Feeling constantly on edge or emotionally down can dim everything that’s going on in your life. Simple daily tasks become extra hard, focusing on work or study seems impossible, and even joyful moments can feel distant, fleeting, and difficult to take in.
Anxiety and depression are more than just passing emotions. They’re real mental health challenges that deserve to be talked about more, not only in therapy but also within families, schools, workplaces, and communities.
In this resource, we’ll explore anxiety and depression, their similarities and differences, symptoms, when they may indicate a disorder, and practical ways to support yourself and reclaim a more balanced, joy-giving life.
TRIGGER WARNING: This article discusses mental health symptoms, which may be distressing for some readers. If you're struggling, please reach out for support through Lifeline (13 11 14) or Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636).
Anxiety & anxiety disorders
Anxiety is a natural stress response, and it’s normal to feel anxious now and then. Beyond Blue also estimates that about 3 million Aussies live with anxiety and that 1 in every 4 people experience some kind of anxiety in their lifetime. But when anxiety becomes excessive, uncontrollable, and disruptive to your daily life, these could be signs of something more serious.
Anxiety disorders top the list of the world’s most common mental disorders, affecting about 4% of the global population (World Health Organisation). In Australia, particularly from 2023 to 2024, it was reported that about 17% of Aussies had experienced an anxiety disorder (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare).
Common symptoms of anxiety disorders
An anxiety disorder can feel like overwhelming anxiety that does not go away, or at least not completely.
You can self-assess your anxiety symptoms, but it’s always best to consult with a qualified mental health professional who can give you a proper diagnosis and therapy plan.
Below are some of the most common symptoms of anxiety disorders.
Emotional & cognitive symptoms | Physical & behavioural symptoms |
|---|---|
Persistent worry that feels impossible to control | Rapid heart rate |
Feeling tense or on edge | Hot flashes |
Racing thoughts or an overactive mind | Shortness of breath |
Feeling overstimulated and hypervigilant | Dizziness |
Difficulty concentrating | Digestive issues |
Difficulty recalling things | Avoidance of situations |
Easily distracted | Wanting frequent reassurance |
Types of anxiety disorders
Some anxiety disorders may have similarities in symptoms, but they differ in terms of triggers and how they affect people.
Anxiety disorders are treatable. If you see yourself in any of the disorders explained below, seeking mental health support from a GP, psychologist, or a support group can help you manage and recover.
Type of anxiety disorder | Description |
|---|---|
Generalised anxiety disorder or GAD | Excessive worry about everyday life, often with restlessness and trouble sleeping |
Panic disorder | Sudden, intense panic attacks with a racing heart, shortness of breath, and dizziness |
Social anxiety disorder | Excessive self-consciousness and fear of social situations, leading to avoidance |
Specific phobias | Intense, irrational fear of specific objects or situations (e.g., enclosed spaces, needles, heights, snakes, etc.) |
Depression
Depression is a mood disorder often characterised by a prolonged state of loneliness, hopelessness, numbness, or emotional exhaustion. It can make daily activities feel overwhelming or meaningless, even those that used to make you feel fulfilled.
One in every seven Aussies suffers from depression, according to Beyond Blue.
Common symptoms of depression
Emotional & cognitive symptoms | Physical & behavioural symptoms |
|---|---|
Persistent sadness, hopelessness, or feeling of emptiness | Fatigue, even after resting |
Feelings of worthlessness | Insomnia or oversleeping |
Irritability and mood swings | Loss of appetite or overeating |
Loss of interest in hobbies or social activities | Moving and speaking more slowly than usual |
Difficulty concentrating | Avoiding responsibilities and interactions with others |
Difficulty making decisions | Unexplained headaches or bodyaches |
Havings thoughts of self-harm or suicide | Unexplained digestive issues |
You can take a depression self-test to get some understanding of what you’re going through. However, getting professional support is still the best way to go.
Types of depression
Type of depression | Description |
|---|---|
Major depressive disorder (MDD) | Intense and persistent sadness, hopelessness, or loss of interest in life lasting at least two weeks |
Persistent depressive disorder (Dysthymia) | Long-term, lower-grade depression lasting two years or more; its symptoms may be milder than MDD but still interfere with daily life |
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) | Depression linked to seasonal changes, often occurring in winter due to reduced sunlight exposure; symptoms improve in sunnier months |
Postnatal depression | Depression that develops after childbirth; can impact bonding with one’s baby and partner |
Depressive anxiety disorder | A mix of both depression and anxiety symptoms; feelings of sadness and hopelessness are combined with excessive worry and restlessness |
Can depression and anxiety occur together?
Yes, many people experience depression and anxiety at the same time. This is often called a depressive anxiety disorder, depending on the severity of your symptoms.
Research confirms that about 50% of people with major depression also have an anxiety disorder. And when these conditions occur together, it can feel like a constant battle between high alertness and emotional exhaustion.
Anxiety and depression are treatable, and they are easier to treat the sooner you seek professional mental health support.
Self-help strategies for managing anxiety and depression
Lifestyle changes can help you manage your symptoms and start feeling better. But they do require you to listen to your body’s cues, prioritise self-care, and be mindful of any situations that trigger your symptoms.
Below are some tips, but you can find more in our anxiety management guide and depression resource.
Prioritise physical activity
Maintain a consistent sleep routine
Eat a balanced diet
Practise mindfulness and meditation
Limit caffeine and alcohol
Challenge negative thoughts
Stay connected with loved ones
Engage in activities you enjoy
Set small, achievable goals
Spend time in nature
Reduce stress through journaling
Seek professional help like depression counselling when needed
Moving forward & finding healing
Some forms of anxiety and depression can be treated through talk therapy and other methods, while some may require medications. If your symptoms are interfering with your daily life, it’s ideal that you seek professional support as soon as possible.
GPs: Can assess symptoms and refer you to a psychologist or psychiatrist.
Therapists & Psychiatrists: Offer therapy and discuss anxiety medication vs depression medication if needed.
Helplines:
Lifeline (13 11 14) – 24/7 crisis support
Beyond Blue (1300 22 4636) – Help for anxiety and depression
Headspace (1800 650 890) – Support for young people
Get Help
Overcome your anxiety and book a free online consultation with one of our top rated therapists
Essential Reading about Anxiety
Free Mental Health Tests
Anxiety & depression FAQs
Both conditions can be triggered by genetics, brain chemistry, stress, trauma, chronic illness, and lifestyle factors like poor sleep or diet.
Yes, long-term depression can lead to excessive worry and stress, triggering anxiety. Likewise, chronic anxiety can cause emotional exhaustion, which may develop into depression.
Both can cause fatigue, sleep issues, difficulty concentrating, irritability, and physical symptoms like headaches or muscle tension. Because their symptoms overlap, they are often mistaken for each other.
Anxiety causes constant worry and fear, while depression leads to persistent sadness and loss of motivation. If you experience both excessive worry and prolonged low mood, you may have depressive anxiety disorder—a mental health professional can help clarify.
Common treatments include therapy (such as CBT), lifestyle changes, medication, and support groups. A GP or therapist can help determine the best approach for you.
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