What is the difference between stress, anxiety and depression?
Stress is the emotional and physical response brought on by pressure from the outside world. Stress reactions include tension, irritability, concentration difficulties, and a variety of physical symptoms that include headaches and a fast heartbeat. Anxiety is a normal healthy response to emotions, and every person experiences anxiety from time-to-time. It is believed that for one in every twelve people, anxiety is so persistent and severe that it creates serious difficulties. Problems can range from being constantly fearful and worried, to being scared of certain situations that they can’t face them. Severe anxiety can also lead to other problems like depression, relationship difficulties, and drug and alcohol abuse. Depression is an illness that involves feelings of sadness which may last for several weeks. It is often accompanied by feelings of hopelessness, loss of interest in life, diminished energy levels and an inability to perform regular daily tasks and activities.