Understanding depression and anxiety 

It’s normal to feel stressed, sad or anxious from time to time. But when these feelings become persistent, overwhelming or interfere with daily life, they may be signs of a mental health condition, such as depression, anxiety or seasonal affective disorder.

First, know that you’re not alone. Anxiety and depression are among the most common mental health conditions. Second, know that effective treatments are available. Recognizing symptoms can be an important first step toward getting help.

"Mental health symptoms deserve the same attention as physical symptoms,” says Hammad Khan, M.D., a psychiatrist with Sutter. “Seeking help is a sign of taking care of yourself." 

From there, you can connect with your primary care provider or a mental health professional who can help you find the right path forward. 

Depression

Sadness is a natural part of being human, but it’s different from depression, which can affect how you feel, think and function in daily life.

Depression, also called major depressive disorder, is more than feeling sad or down. Without treatment, symptoms may worsen over time and can affect relationships, work, school and overall quality of life. Some people may also experience thoughts of death or suicide.

The good news is that depression is treatable, and many people find relief with the right support.

Depression symptoms can show up as mental or physical changes. They may include:

• Anger or irritability
• Anxiety
• Difficulty concentrating
• Fatigue
• Loss of interest in activities
• Physical aches or pains
• Reduced appetite
• Sadness or feelings of emptiness
• Sleep disturbances
• Slowed thinking
• Suicidal thoughts

If depression symptoms last for more than two weeks or interfere with your everyday life, talk to a medical professional. 

Anxiety

Everyone feels anxious sometimes. You might feel nervous before a big presentation, exam or meeting new people. For some people, though, anxiety begins to interfere with everyday life, making even routine activities feel difficult. These feelings may become more intense over time and can feel out of proportion to the situation.

When anxiety is persistent and goes untreated, it can affect sleep, relationships and physical health. It may also lead some people to rely on unhealthy ways to cope, such as alcohol or drugs. If you’re struggling with anxiety, reaching out early can make a difference.

Like depression, anxiety symptoms can be mental and physical. Common anxiety symptoms include:

• Avoiding activities
• Digestive issues
• Excessive worrying
• Fatigue
• Feeling a sense of danger
• Increased heart rate
• Nervousness or tension
• Rapid breathing
• Restlessness
• Sleep disturbances
• Sweating
• Trembling
• Trouble concentrating 

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) 

As the seasons change, it’s normal to feel a bit different. But if you feel especially low during certain times of year, you may be experiencing seasonal affective disorder, or SAD. SAD is a type of depression related to seasonal changes.

Many people associate SAD with fall and winter, when days are shorter and darker. But seasonal affective disorder can also happen in spring or summer. Whatever the season, if symptoms begin to affect your daily life, talk to your doctor.

SAD symptoms can include sadness, hopelessness, loss of interest in activities, trouble concentrating, sleep changes or thoughts of suicide. Some people may also notice seasonal patterns. Fall and winter symptoms can include fatigue, sleeping more than usual, craving carbohydrates, increased appetite or weight gain. Spring and summer symptoms can include agitation, anxiety, insomnia, reduced appetite or weight loss.

When should you ask for help?

Whatever you’re struggling with, remember that there are people who care and want to help. You don’t have to simply live with anxiety, depression or seasonal affective disorder.  

"Depression and anxiety are common, treatable medical conditions. You don't have to manage them alone,” says Khan. "Early treatment can make a meaningful difference."

Talk to your primary care provider or reach out to a mental health specialist for help. Effective treatments are available, and you don’t have to manage symptoms on your own.