Neurological and Psychological Dimensions of Anguish, Anxiety, and Depression: A Transdiagnostic Review

Background Anguish, anxiety, and depression are among the most disabling mental health challenges of our time. They often appear together, creating a complex web of symptoms that affect both body and mind. Although much is known about their biological and psychological bases, their interconnections remain only partially understood. Objective This review aims to bring together the most recent evidence on the neurological and psychological dimensions of anguish, anxiety, and depression, highlighting what they share and where they diverge. Methods We systematically searched PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, Web of Science, and SpringerLink for studies published between 2013 and 2023. We included peer-reviewed articles that examined neurological or psychological correlates of these conditions in adults. The review followed PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Results Out of 3,245 studies initially identified, 87 met all inclusion criteria. Neurological findings point to disruptions in cortico-limbic circuits, dysregulation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, and imbalances in neurotransmitter systems. Psychologically, the most consistent findings involved maladaptive thought patterns, impaired emotion regulation, and heightened negative affect. Anguish, although less frequently studied, revealed overlapping features with anxiety and depression. Conclusion These three conditions share more than symptoms—they share underlying brain circuits and psychological processes. A transdiagnostic approach that integrates biological and psychological perspectives could help us better understand, diagnose, and treat mental suffering in its many forms.