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Deutsch (EUR)Anxiety and Depression: Symptoms, Differences, Causes and Support Options
Anxiety and Depression: Symptoms, Differences, Causes and Support Options
Do you feel afraid without knowing exactly why? Or have you stopped enjoying things you used to love? Anxiety and depression are not signs of weakness or a lack of willpower. They can affect your mental wellbeing, sleep, energy, concentration and physical functioning.
Worry, tension, restlessness and heightened physical alertness may predominate.
Loss of enjoyment, motivation, energy and hope is common.
Anxiety and depression can occur together, and their symptoms can overlap.
Author: Ing. František Kokoš and colleagues · Updated:
In this article
What does anxiety feel like?
Anxiety is a natural part of life. In the short term, it can prepare us for a challenging situation. It becomes a concern particularly when it is excessively intense, persistent or significantly disrupts everyday life.
- inner tension and restlessness,
- excessive worry and repetitive thinking,
- a racing heart, sweating or trembling,
- a feeling of pressure in the chest,
- faster or shallower breathing,
- muscle tension,
- digestive discomfort,
- difficulty falling asleep,
- panic attacks,
- a sense that “something bad is going to happen”.
The physical symptoms of anxiety can be very noticeable. However, if you experience new severe chest pain, significant difficulty breathing or loss of consciousness, do not assume it is just anxiety; seek immediate medical help.
What does depression feel like?
Depression is more than sadness or a bad day. In a depressive disorder, changes tend to be more persistent and affect a person’s ability to function.
- persistent sadness or a feeling of emptiness,
- irritability,
- loss of interest and enjoyment,
- marked tiredness or lack of energy,
- changes in sleep,
- changes in appetite,
- difficulty concentrating and making decisions,
- feelings of guilt or worthlessness,
- hopelessness,
- withdrawing from other people,
- thoughts of death or self-harm.
When assessing depression, a healthcare professional considers the nature of the symptoms, how long they have lasted, their severity and their impact on everyday life. Symptoms are often present for most of the day, nearly every day, for at least two weeks. This does not mean you should wait two weeks to seek help if your symptoms are severe.
Anxiety versus depression: a simple comparison
| Anxiety | Depression |
|---|---|
| frequent worries about the future | feelings of hopelessness or emptiness |
| inner tension and heightened alertness | low energy and reduced activity |
| a racing heart, trembling and sweating | tiredness and feeling slowed down |
| “what if something happens?” | “nothing matters” |
This comparison is a general guide, not a diagnostic tool. Depression can also involve restlessness, and anxiety can be exhausting. A person may experience symptoms of both conditions at the same time.
Why do anxiety and depression develop?
There is usually no single cause. A combination of biological, psychological and social factors may play a role.
- prolonged stress and overload,
- a traumatic event or loss,
- loneliness and ongoing conflict,
- chronic illness or pain,
- insufficient sleep,
- alcohol and other addictive substances,
- hormonal changes,
- genetic and biological vulnerability,
- certain physical health conditions.
Some physical conditions can also cause or worsen similar symptoms. Depending on the circumstances, a doctor may assess issues such as anaemia, thyroid function, certain nutrient deficiencies, sleep disorders or other health problems.
What can help?
1. Professional support
A first step can be a conversation with a GP, psychologist or psychiatrist. Seek support particularly if difficulties persist, affect your relationships, work or sleep, or make everyday responsibilities hard to manage.
2. Psychotherapy
One of the most extensively studied approaches to psychotherapy is cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
It can help people recognise unhelpful patterns of thinking, work through worries, reduce avoidance and gradually restore everyday functioning.
3. A regular routine
- get up and go to bed at roughly the same time,
- eat regularly,
- include at least a short activity each day,
- stay in touch with other people,
- break large tasks into small, manageable steps.
With depression, it can help not to wait for motivation to appear first. Small, manageable steps may gradually help restore a daily routine. If an activity feels unmanageable, this is not a personal failure; the plan should be adapted to the person’s condition, ideally with professional support.
4. Movement and daylight
Regular physical activity suited to your abilities can be a useful part of caring for both mental and physical health.
It does not have to mean intense training. Regular walking, spending time outdoors or gentle exercise adapted to your health can be a starting point.
5. Relaxation and breathing
Slow breathing, relaxation techniques, meditation, prayer or spending time in nature may help some people manage their response to stress.
Regular practice matters, rather than using a technique only when anxiety is already very intense.
6. Sleep and nutrition
Insufficient sleep can significantly worsen mood, concentration and anxiety symptoms.
A varied diet provides a foundation: include adequate protein, vegetables, fruit, wholegrain foods as tolerated and sources of unsaturated fats.
Correcting a confirmed nutrient deficiency can be important, but supplementation does not replace psychotherapy or other necessary treatment.
Caffeine and energy drinks can worsen anxiety. Alcohol is not a suitable way to manage mental health difficulties.
7. Medication when needed
For some anxiety and depressive disorders, a doctor may recommend antidepressant medication. The effects usually take time to develop, and the choice of medicine and dose is individual. Do not stop medication or change your dose on your own. Discuss side effects or worsening symptoms with the prescribing clinician.
They can reduce anxiety in the short term, but prolonged or inappropriate use carries a risk of tolerance and dependence. They should only be used under medical supervision.
When is immediate help needed?
If someone says they do not want to live, has a specific plan, is in immediate danger or cannot keep themselves safe, they should not be left alone. In the European Union, call 112. Outside the EU, call your local emergency number. Stay with the person if it is safe for you to do so, and follow the emergency operator’s instructions.
What to remember
Effective treatments are available for anxiety disorders and depression. These conditions are not evidence of a weak character or an inability to “think positively”.
What matters is recognising the problem and choosing support that fits the individual: psychotherapy, changes to daily routines, movement, sleep, social support and medication when appropriate.
Seeking suitable help makes it possible to start working towards improved daily functioning and quality of life.
This article is for educational purposes and does not replace an assessment by a psychologist, psychiatrist or other qualified healthcare professional. Seek professional support for severe, persistent or worsening symptoms.
Frequently asked questions
What is the basic difference between anxiety and depression?
Anxiety often involves worry, tension and heightened alertness. Depression may involve a loss of interest, enjoyment and energy, together with hopelessness. However, the two conditions can overlap.
When should I seek professional support?
Seek help particularly if difficulties persist, affect your relationships, work or sleep, or make everyday responsibilities hard to manage.
Can psychotherapy help?
Yes. Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) is among the well-studied approaches. The choice of psychotherapy should reflect the person’s difficulties and individual needs.
Sources and further information
- WHO – anxiety disorders
- WHO – depression
- NIMH – depression: symptoms, diagnosis and treatment
- European Commission – the 112 emergency number
These sources provide general health information. Diagnosis and treatment decisions require an individual assessment by a qualified healthcare professional.
Last updated: 25 October 2026
