Most people think of depression as strictly a mental condition. It’s true, that’s where the core of depression stems from. It can also cause various emotional symptoms, including feelings of hopelessness, guilt, or even feeling as though things would be better if you weren’t here.
The mental and emotional effects of depression are real and can become severe without treatment. For those dealing with depression, symptoms can quickly manifest themselves physically.
Physical symptoms aren’t talked about as frequently when it comes to depression. Yet, it’s essential to recognize them. Not only can they keep you tuned in to how you’re feeling, but they are a reminder of how much depression can diminish your quality of life.
How can you identify some of the bodily symptoms and physical signs of depression? Let’s take a look:
Fatigue and Low Energy
There are some common stereotypes about depression and how it makes you want to stay in bed all day. That response can often be more than just an emotional symptom.
Depression tends to cause fatigue and zap your energy levels. While everyday fatigue from stress and other factors might still occur, there is a difference.
Fatigue from depression lasts for more extended periods. It doesn’t go away even if you’ve had enough rest. It can also come with other symptoms, like difficulty concentrating or feeling apathetic.
Aches and Pains
People have different tolerances for pain. When you’re experiencing depression, your pain tolerance can drop significantly. Everything from a stubbed toe to a paper cut might feel intolerable.
Sometimes, you may not even have a reason for experiencing pain. Your body might simply start to ache, or your nerves might feel as though they are burning with pain and irritation. The internal pain you feel from your depression can easily manifest itself into physical pain, causing a vicious cycle within your mind and body.
Headaches
One of the most frequent and common physical ailments associated with depression is headaches. The constant fatigue, stress, and worry you’re going through can cause what is often known as a “tension headache.” While these particular headaches might not be debilitating, they usually feel like a dull, throbbing ache in your head that can last for hours. You can typically manage a tension headache with over-the-counter medication — but they often return quickly.
If you’re having consistent headaches that seem to return even if you’re taking over-the-counter medication, you should talk to your doctor. However, if you’re experiencing other symptoms along with those headaches, it could be a physical sign of depression.
Sleeping and Eating Habits
Although these are technically “behavioral” symptoms, they can affect your body in different ways. If you’re depressed, you may notice changes in the way you eat and sleep. Some people tend to overeat or indulge in things they know aren’t healthy.
Others may experience a loss of appetite. That’s why both weight gain and weight loss can be common symptoms of depression. Often, it results in one of those two extremes.
Sleep habits are similar. Some people with depression may want to sleep all of the time. Others may have difficulty getting to sleep or struggle with insomnia. Unfortunately, a lack of sufficient sleep can lead to a variety of other physical health problems.
Depression can hurt both your mind and body. It’s essential to understand all of the symptoms so you can recognize when it may be time to get help. You don’t have to live with pain or discomfort for the rest of your life.
What to Do Next
Depression rarely fades on its own. If you’re struggling with deep sadness or have the physical symptoms listed here, please do not go on suffering. Read more about depression counseling and contact me soon. Depression symptoms are manageable, and working through the root cause of your depression can help you take control of your life once more.