Anxiety and depression are two distinct problems, but the Anxiety Disorders Association of America says some people can have both at the same time. It estimates about half of depressed people also have an anxiety disorder. Both conditions have distinct effects on a person's life that can affect family, friends and co-workers. They can also cause physical symptoms.
Poor Eating Habits and Bad Digestion
Depression can affect a person's appetite, resulting in either overeating or eating too little, according to the Help Guide mental health information site. This can lead to unhealthy weight fluctuation. Anxiety can lead to gastrointestinal problems such as an upset stomach.
Fatigue
Depression lowers a person's mood and drains energy. Help Guide says anxiety can do the same thing because it makes a person keyed up to the point of getting worn out. Both of these issues can also interfere with restful sleep by causing insomnia, further contributing to fatigue.
Irritability
Anxious and depressed people may be irritable and have a low tolerance for frustration, Help Guide says. Depression taps a person's ability to cope, causing annoyance at even minor things. An anxious person is stressed out, which often leads to irritability.
Socialization Problems
Depression causes people to isolate and withdraw from others, according to Health Guide. A depressed person often tries to avoid interacting with co-workers, family members and friends. Anxiety can lead to isolation, too. A person may become paralyzed by fears and prefer to be alone because the excessive worry makes it hard to be around others.
Impaired Concentration
Anxiety and depression can get in the way of a person's concentration, Help Guide says. The fear and stress that accompany anxiety can keep you from focusing on other things. Depression muddles the mind with negative thoughts that impede normal thinking patterns.
Pain
Help Guide says depression often leads to physical issues such as stomachaches, headaches, sore muscles and back pain. Anxiety leads many people to tense up, causing muscle tension and soreness.
Impaired Sex Drive
The Conquering Stress website cites anxiety and stress as two factors that can impair a person's website. Physically, they get in the way because they cause exhaustion. Emotionally, they interfere because of the excessive worry and withdrawal from other people.
Panic
Panic attacks are a common result of anxiety, but Conquering Stress says it can happen to a depressed person, too. The excessive worry that goes hand in hand with depression can eventually lead to panic because the person feels helpless to deal with the overwhelming situation.
