Anxiety, Depression & Stress

Everyone experiences mental health problems at some point in their lives. Common mental health challenges include anxiety, depression, and stress. While often used interchangeably, all three conditions are different.

Stress is a normal process that typically resolves once the stressor subsides. However, anxiety involves intense and persistent worry about everyday situations, often accompanied by physical symptoms like a racing heart and difficulty sleeping. 

Depression, on the other hand, is characterised by persistent sadness, loss of interest, and changes in sleep and appetite, impacting how individuals think, feel, and behave.

Common anxiety symptoms include: 

  • Fear, nervousness, and restlessness
  • Feelings of panic and dread
  • Rapid heart rate and breathing
  • Profuse sweating
  • Trembling
  • Weakness and fatigue
  • Difficulty concentrating or thinking clearly
  • Sleep issues
  • Digestive or gastrointestinal problems, such as gas, constipation, or diarrhoea

Common depression symptoms include:

  • Feelings of sadness or hopelessness
  • Irritability or frustration
  • Loss of interest or pleasure
  • Sleep issues such as insomnia or too much sleep
  • Lack of energy
  • Reduced appetite and weight loss
  • Anxiety
  • Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
  • Trouble thinking, concentrating, or making decisions
  • Frequent thoughts of death, suicidal thoughts, suicide attempts, or suicide

Common symptoms of stress include:

  • Irritability and anger
  • Feeling overwhelmed and anxious
  • Loss of sense of humour
  • Worried or tense
  • Feeling neglected or lonely
  • Worsening of existing mental health problems
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Sleep problems
  • Fatigue
  • Muscle aches and headaches
  • Indigestion or heartburn
  • Constipation or diarrhoea
  • Developing rashes or itchy skin

Managing Anxiety

While it is not easy, there are many ways to manage anxiety. The strategies involve practising mindfulness through deep breathing exercises and meditation, focusing on self-care by maintaining a balanced lifestyle with adequate sleep and regular physical activity, and seeking support from friends, family, or professionals.

Managing Depression

About 80% to 90% of people with depression who seek treatment eventually recover from the condition and get better. Some of the common measures that can help include:

  • Psychotherapy, or talk therapy, involves communication with a mental wellness expert.
  • Taking prescription drugs known as antidepressants.
  • Complementary medicine, which includes acupuncture, massage, hypnosis, and biofeedback.
  • Brain stimulation therapy, such as Electroconvulsive Treatment (ECT), Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS), and Vagus Nerve Stimulation (VNS), may help people with severe depression and psychosis.

Managing Stress

Chronic stress is associated with serious physical and mental health problems. Many factors, including work, finances, and personal relationships, can contribute to it. To effectively manage stress and get your life back on track, here are some valuable tips:

  • Engage in deep breathing
  • Exercise regularly
  • Establish a routine
  • Prioritise sleep
  • Practice mindfulness and meditation
  • Eat a balanced diet with nutritious foods
  • Organise tasks, prioritise responsibilities, and avoid overcommitting
  • Reduce consumption of stimulants like caffeine and sugar
  • Do not shy away from sharing feelings and concerns
  • Engage in hobbies
  • Consider seeking support from a mental health professional if your stress is persistent

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