Depression and anxiety: Can I have both?

Answer Section

Depression and anxiety are different conditions, but they commonly occur together. They also have similar treatments.

It's not unusual to feel down or have the blues now and then. And everyone feels anxious from time to time — it's a typical response to stressful situations. But severe or ongoing feelings of depression and anxiety can be a sign of an underlying mental health condition.

Going through a major depressive episode can lead to the start of an anxiety disorder. It's also common for depression to be triggered by an anxiety disorder, such as generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder or separation anxiety disorder. Many people have a diagnosis of both an anxiety disorder and clinical depression.

Symptoms of both conditions usually improve with talk therapy, called psychotherapy, medicines such as antidepressants, or both. Lifestyle changes to improve sleep habits, increase social support, reduce stress and get regular exercise also may help. If you have either condition, don't use alcohol, tobacco or recreational drugs. They can make both conditions worse and interfere with treatment.