Symptoms of Depression & Anxiety

Depression and anxiety are recognized medical conditions, according to the Mayo Clinic, and cannot be cured or treated just by willpower. Depression is characterized by a severe sadness that lasts for days or weeks at a time and seriously affects day-to-day activities. Anxiety often is present with depression as patients become overly worried about their condition and the other events over which they have little control.

Undefined

Feelings of extreme sadness or constant worrying for no apparent reason are signals of depression and anxiety. While many people undergo situational depression that is brought on by a sorrowful event and others may worry when they lose a job, those suffering from depression or anxiety take on these feelings when nothing has happened that warrants the emotional response. When the worrying or sadness continues for a long period of time or, as experts at the Mayo Clinic describe, the feelings begin to interrupt daily activities like work or family obligations, then there is a problem.

Concentration

People with depression or anxiety disorders have trouble concentrating because they are so focused on their feelings. Those who suffer from undue anxiety and depression may act restless and keyed up all the time. They have trouble focusing on a problem or task and usually have problems making decisions. According to the Anxiety Disorders Association of America (ADAA), many patients who suffer from anxiety disorders also display symptoms of depression, affecting nearly half of all people diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorders. People with both disorders typically have problems sleeping and are irritable and moody much of the day. Although there is no medical evidence that proves one disorder causes the other, researchers at the ADAA believe there is enough anecdotal information to conclude that many people suffer depression as a result of living with anxiety disorders earlier in life.

Physical Symptoms

Physical symptoms and side effects begin to appear from untreated anxiety and depression. A continual pattern of increased rate can lead to hypertension, or high blood pressure, report researchers at the National Institutes of Health. Studies showed that the risk of developing hypertension was significant for all age groups and races. Other physical symptoms that are common to both disorders include sudden weight loss and declining appetite. Patients with the disorders often lose interest in taking care of themselves; poor grooming often is a symptom that can be recognized by friends and family who then may intervene to help. Additionally, people trying to self-medicate often turn to illegal drugs and alcohol to stave off their symptoms.