According to the National Institute of Mental Health, the majority of people who suffer from an anxiety disorder such as a phobia also suffer from a concurrent psychological disorder. Depression is one of the most common.
What Is Depression?
Everyone experiences times of feeling sad or blue. Clinical depression, however, is a severe disorder that can greatly affect the quality of life. People who are depressed are also at an increased risk for suicide.
How Do I Know if I Am Depressed?
Clinical depression, like phobias, is diagnosed according to specific criteria in the DSM-IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual, 4th Ed.). Common symptoms of depression include ongoing sadness, loss of interest in activities, loss of energy and feelings of worthlessness.
For a more in-depth look at the symptoms of depression, visit Top 9 Depression Symptoms.
Depression, Social Phobia or Agoraphobia?
Depression can be difficult to differentiate from social phobia or agoraphobia. Many people who suffer from depression are reluctant to leave home or socialize with others. Simultaneously, many people who suffer from a social phobia or agoraphobia become depressed due to isolation and loneliness.
Only a qualified clinician can separate the symptoms of depression from those of a phobia. If both disorders are found, the mental health professional will carefully develop a treatment plan that takes both conditions into account.
Conclusion
A phobia is an extreme variation on normal fear. Likewise, depression is an extreme variation on normal tendencies toward sadness or lack of feeling. If you experience any of the symptoms of depression, it is important to tell your health care provider. Treating the depression is an important part of regaining mental health.
Source:The Numbers Count: Mental Disorders in America. National Institute of Mental Health. February 15, 2008. http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/the-numbers-count-mental-disorders-in-america.shtml
