The United States economy loses more than $42 billion each year as a result of misdiagnosed and under treated anxiety disorders, according to a study sponsored by the Anxiety Disorders Association of America (ADAA). The study, published in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, finds that much of the economic burden results from sufferers seeking health care for the physical symptoms of the disorders. There are many types of depression and anxiety disorders, and many people suffer from one or both. Take this quiz to learn more about depression and anxiety to help yourself or someone you love who may be affected.

1. In any given one-year period, how many American adults suffer from some form of depression?

a.) 19 million
b.) 10.4 million
c.) 1.5 million
d.) Less than a million

2. Which of the following are symptoms of depression?

a.) Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" mood
b.) Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism
c.) Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness d.) Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed
e.) All of the above

3. True or False: Women experience depression about twice as often as men.

4. Which of the following is NOT a type of anxiety disorder?

a.) Panic disorder
b.) Obsessive-compulsive disorder
c.) Post-traumatic stress disorder
d.) Manic depressive disorder

5. Anxiety disorders are highly treatable, yet how many of those suffering from an anxiety disorder receive treatment?

a.) Half
b.) One-third
c.) Almost everyone
d.) 75 percent

6. What causes anxiety disorders?

a.) Excessive stress
b.) Being depressed for more than a year
c.) A combination of biological and environmental factors
d.) Having too much on your mind

Did this quiz help you learn a bit about depression versus anxiety disorders? If you think you may have one of these disorders or if someone you care about does, you should know that there are many treatment options. Take comfort in knowing that both depression and anxiety disorders are highly treatable.

Answers

1. A. According to research, in any given one-year period, 9.5 percent of the population, or about 19 million American adults, suffer from a type of depression. (National Institute of Mental Health, 2004)

2. E. The same research shows that not everyone who is depressed experiences every symptom. Some people experience a few symptoms; some many. The severity of symptoms varies with individuals and also varies over time. (National Institute of Mental Health, 2004)

3. True. Many hormonal factors may contribute to the increased rate of depression in women — particularly such factors as menstrual cycle changes, pregnancy, miscarriage, postpartum period, premenopause, and menopause. Many women also face additional stresses, such as responsibilities at both work and home, single parenthood, and caring for children and for aging parents. (National Institute of Mental Health, 2004)

4. D. The five anxiety disorders are identified as: panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, generalized anxiety disorder and phobias (including social phobia, also called social anxiety disorder). (ADAA website, 2005, www.adaa.org)

5. B. Even though it is highly treatable, only about one-third of those suffering from an anxiety disorder seek help. (ADAA website, 2005, www.adaa.org)

6. C. Experts believe that anxiety disorders are caused by a combination of biological and environmental factors, much like other disorders, such as heart disease and diabetes. (ADAA website, 2005, www.adaa.org)