I feel depressed and anxious: what should I know?

Low mood may involve sadness, emptiness, loss of interest, guilt, or low energy. Anxiety can bring constant worry, tension, restlessness, racing thoughts, or physical symptoms such as a fast heartbeat. Depression, generalised anxiety disorder, panic disorder, burnout, insomnia, and some medical conditions such as hyperthyroidism can overlap with these experiences. The symptoms do not prove one diagnosis; a clinician considers their pattern, duration, triggers, medicines, substances, and effect on functioning.

Tell someone you trust what has changed and keep basic routines for sleep, meals, movement, and contact with others. Reduce alcohol and avoid using non-prescribed substances to numb feelings, since they can worsen mood or anxiety. Arrange a mental health assessment with a doctor or qualified mental health professional. Write down symptoms, sleep, stressors, and any medicines so the appointment is more useful. Treatment may include talking therapy, lifestyle support, medicine, or a combination chosen with you.

Seek emergency help now if you may harm yourself or someone else, have a plan, cannot stay safe, hear commands to act, or feel detached from reality. Do not stay alone in that situation; contact local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency department. Arrange prompt medical care if you cannot sleep, eat, work, or care for yourself, or if anxiety brings repeated panic or severe physical symptoms.

Could a medical condition, medicine, sleep problem, or substance be contributing? Which therapy options fit my symptoms? How quickly should I expect support, and what is my plan if my safety worsens?