The term “Anxious Distress” is used to describe a specifier that can be applied to both depressive disorders and bipolar disorders. It indicates the presence of significant anxiety symptoms in addition to the core symptoms of depression.
When a depressive episode is accompanied by anxious distress, it is referred to as “Depressive Disorder with Anxious Distress.” Similarly, in the case of bipolar disorders, the specifier would be “Bipolar Disorder with Anxious Distress.”
The presence of anxious distress is assessed based on the following symptoms:
- Feeling keyed up or tense.
- Feeling unusually restless.
- Difficulty concentrating or finding that your mind goes blank.
- Irritability.
- Fear that something terrible may happen.
- Feeling like you might lose control.
To meet the criteria for the specifier “with anxious distress,” at least two of these symptoms need to be present and experienced as severe.
If you suspect that you are experiencing depression with anxious distress, it is advisable to consult with a qualified mental health professional for a comprehensive evaluation and appropriate diagnosis. They will consider your symptoms, history, and individual circumstances to provide a more accurate diagnosis and guide your treatment plan.