Stress Vs Depression: Understanding the Difference and Signs

stress and depression
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We all feel stress from time to time. It isn’t always negative though. There are times when it is considered beneficial since it motivates and helps us accomplish a task more efficiently?  But then, too much stress can cause serious effects on our health. Some major contributors to stress are family problems, financial difficulties, work issues, and complications in a romantic relationship. If it goes on without properly addressing it, it might eventually lead to depression.

See: 5 Healthy Tips In Dealing With Stress

Depression, on the other hand, is a serious issue that involves feeling low for several weeks or longer, and in some cases years. There are many possible causes of depression. It can be a faulty mood regulation by the brain, genetic vulnerability, stressful life events, medications, and medical problems. 

Common signs of Stress and Depression

Stress and depression are somehow similar yet different from each other. You may go on thinking your sudden mood changes, exhaustion, etc. is just because of stress. It is easier to believe that than to accept the fact you are depressed. However, acknowledging your feeling of stress or depression will help you seek help as early as possible.

The common signs of stress and depression as listed in the article about stress and depression posted on the Medical Health America website.

Signs of Stress

  • Trouble sleeping
  • Feeling overwhelmed
  • Problems with memory
  • Problems concentrating
  • Change in eating habits
  • Feeling nervous or anxious
  • Feeling angry, irritable or easily frustrated
  • Feeling burned out from studying or schoolwork
  • Feeling that you can’t overcome difficulties in your life
  • Trouble functioning in class or in your personal life

Signs of Depression

  • Withdrawing from other people
  • Feeling sad and hopeless
  • Lack of energy, enthusiasm and motivation
  • Trouble making decisions
  • Being restless, agitated and irritable
  • Eating more or less than usual
  • Sleeping more or less than usual
  • Trouble concentrating
  • Trouble with memory
  • Feeling bad about yourself or feeling guilty
  • Anger and rage
  • Feeling that you can’t overcome difficulties in your life
  • Trouble functioning in your class or in your personal life
  • Thoughts of suicide