I get asked a lot “what’s the difference between stress, anxiety & depression?”
So, I tell them, in my experience, that is exactly the order they come in – Stress, Anxiety, Depression (SAD).
Stress – stress is actually good for us, initially it fires up our fight or flight mode; releases adrenaline, fires up our metabolism and focuses the mind.
Anxiety – too much stress, however, leads to anxiety, our bodies are now in constant fight or flight mode. This will affect our concentration, sleep pattern and ability to cope with everyday situations.
Depression – most clients I see with depression, have reported that it has developed following an extended period of anxiety. Our fight or flight mode is only there for emergency situations, but with anxiety we are constantly in emergency mode. Our body is unable to cope and, in my opinion, starts to shut itself down to protect itself from burn out. We become lethargic, disinterested and depressed.
