Not sure if depression or anxiety

[intervine]

Hi all,

This is the first time I've posted online about this... so please bear with me.

 For a few months now I've been feeling... different. I have definitely lost motivation in almost all aspects of life: I used to be able to study very efficiently but ever since this started I've never been able to concentrate for more than 20 minutes. I used to absolutely LOVE gaming, but now when I play games I don't get as much of a thrill. Also I used to be a huge fitness junkie, exercising and playing sports at least 5-6 times a week. But now, I don't even have the motivation to do as much exercise. I feel tired all the time and before this week (which is why I'm posting now), I would sleep all the time. However this week, something else changed. Now I can't sleep. I still feel tired and I really want to rest, but my brain just won't turn off. 

Furthermore, I lost motivation to go out an socialize as well, and when I do I feel nervous and utterly self-conscious, and I always end up feeling even more exhausted after a day of socializing. I still have some close friends thankfully, and being with them does not sap me of my energy. I never used to be this introverted. I used to be the life of the group and I'd always be keen for going out. But now I just feel anxious and self-conscious when I'm in big groups. And it's gotten so bad to the point where I can't even go out for a run because I feel too self-conscious.

 So basically, is this depression or anxiety? I kind of want to figure this out before I start seeking professional help...

Sorry for the lengthy post. Thanks in advance for anyone's time 🙂

[Macka90]

Hi intervine

i know how u feel, I feel the same I have no motivation and I have been diagnosed with both depression and anxiety so it could be both. 

I would suggest going to ur GP for a visit and telling her/him about how u r feeling lately and ask them could it be either or both, I never thought it could be as I have suffered depression before but never this bad, but my depression came back with a vengeance. 

I don't know if this helps, I hope it does. 

Look forwardto hearing from you soon.

[Narniakid]

Hey intervine! Welcome to the forums and thank you for sharing with us!

From the symptoms you've provided, there's a good chance it could be both. Lack of motivation, mental exhaustion and extreme self-consciousness are extremely common in both depression and anxiety. But don't worry - we're here to support you through it!

What I suggest you do is have a look at the information regarding the signs and treatment options here on the website under 'The facts' tab. There is also a checklist on the homepage you can take. 

As Macka90 suggested, the best option is to go to your GP for a professional diagnosis. They'll ask you some questions and get you to fill out a questionnaire, and if needed, refer you to the appropriate psychologist and discuss the options available.

Crystal

[intervine]

Thanks for the replies guys 🙂

 I think I will make an appointment with my GP. What would I say to them? Usually I go there for a fever/bad cold so I don't know what I should say 😧 

[Julsy]

Hey Intervine,

i don't know how your relationship with you GP is but I can tell you they would have had someone like you come in not knowing what to say before. I did the same thing. All I said was that I needed some help, then I would explain how your mood has shifted and how you aren't enjoying those activities anymore. And I assure you they will refer you to the right health professionals. Please do not be disheartened it's a long journey but it looks like you are ready for change. 

 you can do it 🙂 

[intervine]

Thanks for your support Julsy 🙂

Well, just an update. I just visited my GP and the outcome was a little unexpected... he referred me to a pathology clinic for a blood test. I guess he wanted to see if there's anything physically wrong with me first, which could be a possibility. He told me that if there isn't and I'm still feeling the same way in 2 weeks when I revisit him, then he may refer me to some psychologists.

[geoff]

dear Intervine, hi and welcome to the forum.

Blood tests can tell the amount of serotonin in your blood, and when someone has depression then the levels will be low, which means that the doctor will want to put you on medication.

From what you have said about how you have changed, it would appear that within 2 weeks it will be no different than how you are now, although I'm not a psychologist and have no right to say this, but sometimes being a long time sufferer we could expect what happened to us may happen for you.

Let us know how you are. Geoff.