Mental health affects how we think, feel, and act. It influences our relationships, work, and ability to handle stress. According to the World Health Organization, 1 in 8 people globally lives with a mental health condition. These challenges can impact anyone, regardless of age, background, or circumstance.

This month, we’re focusing on two of the most common conditions: anxiety and depression, as well as tips for taking care of your mental health every day.

Anxiety

What is anxiety?

Anxiety is a normal response to stress, but when it becomes persistent, overwhelming, or interferes with daily life, it may be a sign of an anxiety disorder.

What are common symptoms of anxiety?

Anxiety may present differently for different people. Here are some common symptoms:

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• Constant worry or fear
• Racing thoughts or restlessness
• Fatigue or trouble sleeping
• Difficulty concentrating
• Physical symptoms like a rapid heartbeat, sweating, or nausea

What are the different types of anxiety disorders?

There are several types of anxiety disorders, each with varying symptoms.

• Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): GAD involves chronic, excessive worry about everyday things — work, health, finances, relationships — even when there’s little or no reason to worry. People with GAD often find it difficult to control their anxiety and may experience restlessness, fatigue, and trouble concentrating.
• Social Anxiety Disorder: Also known as social phobia, this disorder causes intense fear of being judged, embarrassed, or rejected in social or performance situations. Even routine interactions, like making eye contact or speaking in a meeting, can trigger overwhelming anxiety.
• Panic Disorder: This condition is marked by recurrent, unexpected panic attacks — sudden episodes of intense fear accompanied by physical symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, or heart palpitations. Panic attacks can come on quickly and feel terrifying, often without a clear trigger.
• Phobias: Phobias are intense, irrational fears of specific objects, situations, or activities — such as heights, flying, spiders, or enclosed spaces. People with phobias often go out of their way to avoid the source of fear, even when it’s not dangerous.

If anxiety is disrupting your life, know that you’re not weak — you’re human. And help is available.

Depression

What is depression?

Depression is more than just “feeling sad” or having a rough day. It’s a serious mental health condition that affects how a person feels, thinks, and handles daily activities. Also known as Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), depression is one of the most common — and most treatable — mental health disorders.

Depression can occur at any age, but it often begins in adulthood. It impacts millions of people around the world, and while it can feel isolating, you are not alone — and help is available.

What are the common symptoms of depression?

Symptoms of depression vary from person to person, but common signs include:

• Persistent sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
• Fatigue or lack of energy, even after rest
• Changes in appetite (eating too much or too little)
• Sleep disturbances (insomnia or sleeping too much)
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or self-blame
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions
• Physical symptoms like headaches, digestive issues, or body pain without a clear cause
• Thoughts of death or suicide

For a diagnosis, these symptoms typically last for at least two weeks and interfere with daily functioning — at work, school, or in relationships.

What causes depression?

Depression doesn’t have a single cause. It’s often the result of a combination of biological, psychological, and environmental factors, including:

• Brain chemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine
• Genetics: Family history of depression or other mood disorders
• Trauma or stress: Events like abuse, the loss of a loved one, or financial hardship
• Medical conditions: Chronic illness, hormonal changes, or substance use
• Personality factors: People with low self-esteem or a pessimistic outlook may be more vulnerable

Taking Care of Your Mental Health

Taking care of your mental health isn’t something you do once — it’s a daily practice. Here are ways to support your emotional well-being:

1. Connect with others.

Stay in touch with people who uplift you. A strong support network makes a big difference.

2. Move your body.

Exercise releases mood-boosting chemicals in the brain. Even a short walk can help.

3. Get enough sleep.

Rest is essential for mental resilience. Aim for 7–9 hours a night.

4. Set boundaries.

It’s okay to say no. Protect your time and energy.

5. Practice mindfulness or meditation.

These practices help quiet racing thoughts and reduce stress.

6. Seek professional help when needed.

Therapists, counselors, and support groups can offer tools, perspective, and healing.