Understanding Depression & Anxiety: Symptoms, Stages & Treatment

There seem to be higher levels of depression and anxiety than ever before. Depression and anxiety affect both men and women, and will worsen if they are not treated.

Depression &Anxiety in Children and Teens

• Depression and anxiety are common at the beginning of the teenage years. These stages usually include a loss of energy, followed by withdrawing socially, acting out, or using drugs and/or alcohol.

Depression &Anxiety in Women

• Women are more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety than men; the stages of depression might begin with a feeling of being overwhelmed, and then advance to mood swings, anxiety, tension and fatigue.

Depression &Anxiety in Men

• Depression in men often begins after a major life change has occurred, such as a divorce. Symptoms include loss of confidence, feeling hopeless, loss of interest in activities and hobbies, and even thoughts of suicide.

Depression &Anxiety in the Elderly

• Depression and anxiety in the elderly, if left untreated, can expand to fatigue, isolation, disturbances in sleep, a loss of self worth and a fixation on death.

Postpartum Depression and Anxiety

• After women give birth, some experience postpartum depression, which can develop into a loss of interest in the baby, feelings of guilt and low self esteem.