How to Know if a Loved One is Suffering from Anxiety and/or Depression

Depressed woman sitting and looking out of a window
Author: Heather
Category: Anxiety
Published Date: 08/16/2019
Comments: 41

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I recently spoke about the things you shouldn’t say to those that suffer from anxiety, but what if you aren’t sure if they are actually suffering? You may be surprised by this, but according to the ADAA, anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the U.S., affecting 40 million adults in the United States, or 18.1% of the population every year. What this means is, someone, if not multiple people in your life, are suffering from some type of anxiety or depression. And they may be doing such a great job of hiding it, you don’t even realize it.

As someone that has suffered with both anxiety and depression for many years, I can tell you that there are signs that your loved one is suffering. While not everyone who exhibits these characteristics is having mental health issues, it’s quite possible that those who are, exhibit many of these characteristics as a result of their anxiety and/or depression.

If you ask my family and friends, they will probably tell you that they’ve witnessed me experience each of these symptoms at some point of my life.  When my anxiety and depression is at its worst, I may experience all of them at once.

It’s important to mention that I am not a professional or a doctor. I’m just a Mom who speaks publicly about my struggles with anxiety and depression. These warning signs are largely based on my own experience. I’m hoping that they will help others to identify what may be happening to themselves or their loved one.

  • Loss of Interest
  • Lack of Urgency for Personal Hygiene
  • Trouble Sleeping or Fatigue
  • Difficulty Concentrating and/or Remembering
  • Irritability
  • Avoiding Social Gatherings or Crowds
  • Worrying Excessively or Irrational Fears
  • Guilt 

Do any of these symptoms look familiar to you?

I am personally well aware of each symptom, as it’s happening, but my anxiety doesn’t allow me to do anything about it. In most cases, when I realize any of these are happening, I panic and it makes my anxiety even worse.

I often feel like a different person than I was before my anxiety and I don’t recognize myself. These feelings push me until I give in and take a personal day. Other times, when I know that I have a deadline or something that has to be done, I push through them, but usually find myself in bed for a full day afterward.

It’s important to remember that anxiety and depression is different for everyone. There is no easy fix. There is not one remedy that works for everyone. We all have to figure out what works for each of us and if it stops working, learn to adapt and make the necessary changes. The most important thing we can do is not ignore the signs.

While meds weren’t the answer for me, they do help a lot of people. For some, it’s a matter of changing their diet and their routine. For others, yoga and meditation are key. I haven’t found my magic combination yet, but I know I will. It’s a constant battle, but a battle that I will never stop fighting.

If you or a loved one needs help with mental health issues, please consult a physician.

Follow along on my journey with anxiety.

Your loved one might be suffering from anxiety or depression. You might not know it, but there are signs to look for.

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Hello There!

I'm so honored that you've found us! I'm Heather, a Mom of 3 who blogs about parenting, food, occasional travel and how I overcame my daily struggle with anxiety. I miss sleeping and rely on coffee and laughter to get me through the day. I hope you enjoy and visit often!

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  • Boy, does this hit home! I am the person with the anxiety and sometimes it is another family member! When mine rolls around I fixate on like one thing with myself and feel doomed.

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      I’m so sorry that you are going through it too. I completely relate to how you feel. If you ever need an ear, I’m here.

  • This is great info. as someone who suffers from both in a family full of relatives that suffer from both, it’s important for people to know the symptoms and be more understanding of them too because we don’t choose to feel the way we do.

  • This came the right time, with this I can figure what my niece is going through, thank you so much for the article.

  • Depression is a very serious thing that too many people don’t take serious. This was a great and informative read.

  • This is an extremely important topic. Depression can be concealed, and we don’t realize it until it’s too late. It’s so difficult to identify. Thank you for sharing these warning signs. We can all do our part to identify and help those that we care for and love the best we can.

  • This is so, so important. Depression is such an insidious thing. It’s so hard to spot. Thank you for sharing what to look for. Often times, people with depression can’t or won’t ask for help, so it’s up to us to be aware of the symptoms.