The Journal of clinical psychiatryJan 1, 1997

Managing Depression When Anxiety Symptoms Are Present

Psychedelic Science Weekly Brief ↗PubMed ↗

Updated Apr 3, 2026

Abstract

SSRIs are preferred for treating depression with anxiety due to their effectiveness and safety profile.

Depression and anxiety are often interconnected, forming a spectrum rather than being distinct conditions.
SSRIs effectively alleviate anxiety symptoms in patients suffering from depression.
TCAs, while sedating, are not necessary for achieving anxiolytic effects.
SSRIs have a favorable adverse event profile compared to TCAs and are safer in overdose situations.
Prompt and effective treatment is crucial for patients diagnosed with depression accompanied by anxiety due to potential suicide risk.

Simplified

Current diagnostic classifications separate depression from anxiety, yet these conditions commonly coexist in clinical practice, forming a spectrum of disorders between these extremes. Treatment options for depression with anxiety include tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and serotonin selective reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). As SSRIs are nonsedating, this proves that sedation as produced by TCAs is not required for anxiolytic actions. SSRIs are effective in anxiety disorders and against anxiety symptoms in depressed patients. The adverse event profile of SSRIs compares favorably with that of TCAs, and SSRIs are much safer in overdose. When the diagnosis of depression with anxiety is established, it is important to institute prompt, effective treatment in view of the potential risk of suicide. The SSRIs appear to be the treatment of choice for such patients.

Managing Depression When Anxiety Symptoms Are Present

Abstract

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