If you’ve ever been told to “just breathe” during a wave of anxiety, you know it’s not always comforting. You’re overwhelmed, your heart is racing, and your mind is in overdrive. Being told to focus on your breathing can feel like someone trying to fix a broken dam with a single piece of tape.

Anxiety and depression are two of the most prevalent mental health challenges people face today. Despite being distinct conditions, they are often linked, with one frequently contributing to the development or worsening of the other. It’s not uncommon for individuals to experience both anxiety and depression simultaneously, and understanding why this happens can be the key to effective treatment and long-term recovery.