Can Anxiety Cause Depression? 6 Key Connections You Should Know

Journaling can be a coping skills for managing anxiety symptoms in addition to your therapy journey.

Anxiety and depression are common mental health issues that exhibit similar symptoms and have similar treatments. It's completely normal to feel sad or anxious from time to time. But if those feelings linger, become more intense, or start interfering with your daily life, it may be time to seek support.

 Anxiety may not lead to depression in the literal sense, but it definitely can contribute to its development. Thus, there is a complex relationship between the two that is, in turn, influenced by heredity, coping strategies, stress, intensity of anxiety, and environmental circumstances.

People experiencing anxiety often avoid certain activities or situations because the feelings of fear can feel overwhelming. This avoidance can lead to a sense of disconnection, which may increase the risk of developing depression. However, it's important to remember that not everyone with anxiety will develop depression—each person's experience is unique. During particularly intense periods of anxiety, some individuals may notice temporary depressive symptoms, but the good news is that these symptoms often respond well to therapy and learning coping skills and, when appropriate, medication.

 There are six ways anxiety leads to depression:

 1. Genetic predispositions and neurotransmitter issues: Anxiety and depression may be a result of genetic predispositions and neurotransmitter imbalance. The dopamine and serotonin imbalance can lead to these mental conditions, and this is why we can conclude that these factors add to the chances of developing depression and anxiety.

2. Negative thinking: Depression and anxiety often trigger patterns of negative thinking. During heightened anxiety, individuals may experience persistent worry, fear about the future, and catastrophic thoughts. This mental overload can lead to rumination, low self-esteem, and feelings of worthlessness. Over time, these negative thought patterns can create a sense of hopelessness and a diminished self-view—symptoms that are common in depression and frequently overlap with anxiety

3. Chronic stress: Stressful situations trigger fear, constant worry, and apprehension, causing anxiety. When an individual faces constant periods of stress due to anxiety, the body releases a hormone called cortisol. Cortisol changes the brain chemistry, negatively affects moods, and increases the chances of developing depression.

4. Physical symptoms: People experiencing chronic anxiety or anxiety attacks often develop physical symptoms including sleep disturbances, increased irritability, stomach acidity, nausea, and severe fatigue. When these bodily symptoms become overwhelming, they can create an unsettling sense of foreboding and frustration. Over time, these persistent and unexplained physical manifestations may contribute to the onset of depression.

6. Influence on daily living: Chronic anxiety significantly impacts daily functioning, relationships, work performance, and social connections, ultimately diminishing overall quality of life. Rather than simply preventing engagement in enjoyable activities, anxiety leaves individuals feeling powerless to manage everyday stressors and challenges. As a result, people begin experiencing sadness, frustration, and a sense of hopelessness - emotions that are hallmark features of depression.

6. Social Withdrawal and Isolation: Fear and discomfort drive individuals toward what we term "avoidance behavior." Those experiencing anxiety often retreat from social settings, relationships, and activities as a way to escape feelings of fear and unease. This social isolation frequently results in sadness, loneliness, and disconnection from others, creating conditions that foster depression.

 Anxiety can sometimes be a symptom of clinical depression, and in many cases, the two conditions occur together. While genetics may play a role, experiences such as trauma, adverse childhood environments, neglect, and ongoing stress can also contribute to the development and intensity of these mental health challenges.

If you're struggling, consider exploring online therapy with a trusted, licensed counselor. Therapy can offer the support and guidance you need to navigate difficult emotions and prevent them from escalating into more serious actions or thought patterns.

Whether you're dealing with anxiety, depression, or a combination of both, getting a proper diagnosis is an important first step. Virtual counseling with a trained therapist—especially when paired with cognitive behavioral therapy, stress management tools, physical activity, strong social connections, and healthy lifestyle habits—can significantly support your mental and emotional well-being.