Both depression and anxiety can knock us off balance. The calm, regulated mind is the baseline. It is where we are able to identify plans and goals and to follow through with them. It is where we can feel our emotions without being overwhelmed by them and where we have autonomy and are in control of our lives.

Depression is below the baseline with symptoms that can include persistent low mood, low motivation, loss of interest in activities, fluctuations in weight, sleep disturbances, and irritability.

Anxiety is above the baseline with symptoms that can include persistent worry, fear of social interactions, avoidance of people and places, constant overthinking, and panic.

Both depression and anxiety can cause fatigue, and other physical symptoms. Often there are complex issues contributing to the sadness or worry, and it is difficult to tell what thread to pull first to untangle the knot. Working with a therapist experienced in each condition can help you answer the why and what questions about depression or anxiety, and most important, the “How do I feel better?”