Is it possible for anxiety to trigger depression?

Answer 1

Yes, but, I think you've been advised incorrectly. Anxiety can cause a wide range of problems. If left unchecked it can cause severe physical problems as well. Unfortunately, anxiety can be caused by an external source, or be you mentally. I'm not saying you're mentally ill. Example: remember when you would have a pimple(unless you were REALLY lucky)? You would feel very selfconcious. The same applies to any number of real or imagined flaws. Think of this as repairing a car. You would never consider just replacing parts in the hope of fixing the problem. First, you would try to determine what was causing the problem, THEN replace the defective part.
You will, probably, need professional help to determine the problem. First, though, sit down with a pencil and paper and list what, you think, would be causing your anxiety. Since this is an overwhelming task, break it down int to parts.
1. external causes-take a week to make the list. Keep the notebook handy, and when something causes you stress---write it down. If you want take two weeks to make the list.
2. THIS IS THE HARD PART! Sit down with the list and OBJECTIVELY, study each thing you wrote down(you may find it is nothing external) and decide if this is capible of causing you stress. If yes, then you must decide how you can adapt to this situation(it may be something as simple as something someone around you saying something which makes you VERY uncomfortable, and you have to be around that person. Simply say to them "When you say that it makes me really uncomfortable". With each item, decide how to live with whatever it is. If you find you can't then you have to decide what to do. move on or live with the anxiety.
3. Now take a look inside yourself. Is there something about yourself which makes you unhappy about yourself? Weight, teeth whatever. BUT be carefull many times people tend to fixate on a physical thing, and when they fix that they go to the next physical thing. Be sure it's not something you would really like to fix, but not the source of you anxiety.
4. the professional help. Many times, it's sorta like writing the problem on the blackboard(showing my age here). during the course of writing the problem down you see the answer. The same thing with a professional. it's a different perspective that they can bring to the table. If you can't afford therapy(I know it's very expensive) try your local church. Just, always, follow the first rule. BE COMFORTABLE WITH WHOWEVER YOU'RE TALKING TO.

Summary: find out whether it's external or internal source. then figure out how to change (a) the problem source (b) yourself or (c) move on. GOOD LUCK

Answer 2

Sure--anxiety and depression are very common at the same time. Stress, feeling out of control, helplessness are all part of both problems. There are meds that are effective for treating both at the same time, fortunately. I know they helped me--as did counseling.

Answer 3

doesn't anxiety almost always trigger depression?

most people with GAD (General Anxiety Disorder) are depressed...

Answer 4

The are interrelated. If you have anxiety and depression...lexapro might be the best drug for you.

Answer 5

Absolutely- why do you think this is happening to you? If so then see your doctor so he can prescribe some meds to help you out.

Answer 6

yes the two do go hand to hand in most cases

Answer 7

I'd say yes, as it's a vicious circle...

Good luck !
;^)

Answer 8

Yes, and vice-versa as well.