Panic Disorder and Depression

It is not uncommon for people with panic disorder to also suffer from a mood disorder, such as depression. In fact, several studies suggest that over half of people with panic disorder also suffer from depression at one point or another. According to the National Institutes of Health, depression is a serious medical illness that’s more than just a feeling of being "down in the dumps" or "blue" for a few days. The feelings of depression persist and interfere with your daily life, causing an array of unwelcome physical and mental symptoms. Some of these symptoms may include:

• A feeling of overall sadness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you used to enjoy
• Weight gain or weight loss
• Difficulty sleeping or oversleeping
• Loss of energy
• Feelings of helplessness, hopelessness or worthlessness
• Thoughts of death or suicide

If you are feeling depressed, it’s important to get help. Thoughts of death or suicide should be considered a medical emergency – call emergency services or go to your nearest emergency room. In the United States there is a suicide hotline you can call if you’re feeling overwhelmed: 1-800-784-2433 or 1-800-273-8255.

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