Difference Between Anxiety & Depression? Anxiety and depression are similar in that they both cause you to feel a range of emotions. Anxiety causes feelings of nervousness, worry, or dread. Women are more likely than men to get anxiety disorders. In addition to these feelings, people who have anxiety may also have physical symptoms such as sweating, rapid heartbeat, and muscle tension. Depression can cause feelings of sadness and hopelessness. Sometimes these feelings can get so severe that they interfere with everyday activities like sleeping or working on school or career goals. Anxiety and depression are two types of mood disorders. In addition to causing negative thoughts and mood changes, each condition also comes with its own set of physical symptoms. Here's what you need to know about the differences between anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and bipolar disorder. What Is Anxiety? Anxiety is just a feeling. It can be helpful to understand what it feels like to experience anxiety, because that’s how you can learn to recognize your own unique symptomology and help your body relax when you’re feeling anxious. What Is Depression? Depression (major depressive disorder) is a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and how you act. Fortunately, it is also treatable. If left untreated, depression can lead to serious complications such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and diabetes. Because depression can be treated successfully with medication, therapy and lifestyle changes, many people who have lived with it for years have hope that they can return to a meaningful life again. How To Treat Anxiety And Depression? Depression and anxiety are closely linked, but they're different in many ways. That's why it can be harder for doctors to diagnose and treat both conditions when they happen together. That's why it's important to tell your doctor about all of your symptoms . Other ways: Maintain a proper sleep cycle Eating habits Avoid overthinking Try to stay happy all the time Find inner peace in your life through meditation.