Describe the main difference between anxiety disorders and depressive disorders.
The main difference between anxiety disorders and depressive disorders is the primary symptoms and focus of each disorder.
Anxiety disorders are characterized by intense and excessive worry, fear, and nervousness that significantly impacts a person's ability to function in daily life. Symptoms can include restlessness, irritability, muscle tension, and difficulty concentrating.
Depressive disorders, on the other hand, are characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and disinterest in activities that the person used to enjoy. Symptoms can include fatigue, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, and thoughts of self-harm or suicide.
While both disorders can co-occur and share some overlapping symptoms, the key distinction is that anxiety disorders are primarily centered around excessive fear and worry, while depressive disorders focus on persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness.