Anxiety? depression? both? what is the difference and how can i tell which one i have or if i have both? is it normal to have both? does 1 cause both?

Complex answer: Core Depression symtoms: low despondent mood, loss of interest in enjoyable activities and basic daily functions, hopelessness and/or helplessness feelings and thoughts (I am worthless and nothing ever goes right). Core anxiety symptoms: feeling on edge and worry - often fear of a stimulus or situation, feeling agitated nervousness, physical symptoms (sweating, high heart rate, flushing, panic).

Major depression: comes with anxiety as one of its symptoms 75% of the time. Anxiety can be separate and have some depression associated with it. So, they can be separate or overlap (co-morbid). This question requires a visit to a psychologist or psychiatrist. They have been trained for years to tease out the particulars and render an accurate diagnosis. Treatment follows from the diagnosis.

EVAL: Get a psychiatric evaluation for the symptomology that bothers you, and consider possible medication management. Then get a referral to a reputable clinician who specializes in whatever your issues may be.

First have a physical exam to rule out an illness. If cleared then please see a Clinical Psychologist with expertise in multiple types of psychotherapy to help. Medication can be helpful managed by a Psychiatrist who knows your medical history.