Published on September 9, 2026
People with symptoms of anxiety and depression could be exhibiting the symptoms of an underlying physical illness.
People with symptoms of depression and anxiety are treated with psychotherapy and/ or medications. However, underlying physical illnesses could also mimic such symptoms. These patients may not respond to regular psychiatric treatment. Therefore, doctors often recommend tests to rule out physical illnesses before starting treatment. Some of these illnesses are:
Thyroid Dysfunction
Thyroid dysfunction can result in low or high levels of thyroid hormone. Low thyroid hormone levels (hypothyroidism) can result in symptoms such as mental slowing, inability to feel happy, brain fog and excessive sleep. High thyroid hormone levels (hyperthyroidism) can cause palpitations, disrupted sleep and panic attacks. Thyroid dysfunction can be diagnosed with simple blood tests and controlled with oral medicines.
Perimenopause
Perimenopause in women is marked by fluctuations in the levels of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. Women in this stage of their life experience symptoms resembling depression or anxiety. These may include severe irritability, panic attacks, mood swings and disrupted sleep.
Vitamin deficiency
Deficiency of vitamin B12 can result in symptoms such as lethargy, lacking of motivation and confusion. Deficiency of vitamin D could result in symptoms that mimic those of anxiety or depression. These symptoms could resolve with vitamin supplementation.
Fluctuations in Glucose Levels
Sudden drops in blood glucose, for example, in diabetes patients who have overdosed on insulin, could result in symptoms resembling a panic disorder such as increased heart rate, trembling, sweating, and feeling of impending dread. Patients with insulin resistance may show symptoms of lethargy, lack of motivation or inability to feel pleasure.
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