Definition - Anxiety is a complex combination of the feeling of fear, apprehension and worry often accompanied by physical sensations such as palpitations, chest pain and/or shortness of breath. It may exist as a primary disorder or may be associated with other medical problems including other psychiatric disorders.

Depression: An emotional state characterized by sadness, unhappiness, anhedonia, helplessness, hopelessness, dejection, futility, and worthlessness.
Depression: A neurotic or psychotic condition marked by an inability to concentrate, insomnia, and feelings of dejection and guilt.

Dealing Depression and Anxiety

There are moments in everyone's life when it seems nothing is going right. Your outlook on life, and your general disposition, will often dictate how you handle these situations. While some people stand up and fight their way through any problem, there are others who can't handle the mounting pressures and disappointments. In the end, depression and anxiety take over, leaving them feeling helpless and despondent.

>Depression and anxiety are often internal as well as external. You aren't necessarily a weak person if you are prone to either one, and you may just need some extra support. There is nothing wrong with this, and most people need a hand on occasion. You learn coping skills from your parents as you grow from a young child to an adult, and if they were prone to depression and anxiety, it may be something you learned.

Help is out there for those who feel bouts of depression and anxiety.

There are quite a few medications you can get from your doctor that may help you lighten your mood, and feel more positive about life in general. These pills are often taken daily, and work quite well for some people. It may take a few weeks before you feel the effects of the pill, but you may soon notice your outlook on life has changed somewhat, and you begin to deal with depression and anxiety in a more positive manner. You can also try natural remedies for depression and anxiety, but you should remember to talk to your doctor before taking any herb or other natural remedy.

These are quite often safe, but if you are taking other medications, there is a chance they may interact and cause you harm. Even the most harmless herbs may have serious complications if mixed with other medications. Diet and exercise are also great remedies for depression and anxiety for some people. It's not a cure-all for deepening sadness, but it can help boost your mood, and improve your overall health. Exercise releases endorphins. This is your body's natural way of making you feel good. Eating better foods in your diet may also make you feel more energetic, and you may find yourself better able to deal with life's worries.

Never be afraid to seek help if your depression and anxiety seem to be getting the best of you. It doesn't make you a weak or worthless person, it just means that you are overwhelmed and don't know how to cope. You may be surprised how fast a qualified professional can help lift your depression and anxiety to tolerable levels. They can also teach you coping skill for the future.

Article by J.D. Ericson an independent writer for Healthy Help Files on Mental Health Issues.

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