How depression affects the body

Depression is more than feeling sad. It is a serious mental health condition that can affect both the mind and the body.  The good news is that depression is treatable although its symptoms can be different from person to person.

Health experts say that irritability changes in sleep or appetite loss of interest in daily activities and constant tiredness can all be signs of depression.

Depression also known as major depressive disorder or clinical depression can affect a person’s mood, thoughts, behavior and daily life. It may cause long lasting feelings of sadness emptiness or hopelessness. People may also lose interest in activities they once enjoyed.

In severe cases depression can affect work, education family life and relationships.

What causes depression?

There is no single cause of depression. It can develop due to a combination of genetic physical psychological and environmental factors.

A person’s family history childhood experiences long term stress family or social environment upbringing and difficult life situations may increase the risk.  Work pressure and ongoing worries may also contribute to depression in some people.

Irritability can also be a sign

Depression does not always make a person look sad. Some people may become easily irritated angry restless or frustrated over small things.

Other common symptoms may include.

•Frequent crying or feeling like crying

•Sleeping too much or too little

•Changes in appetite

•Difficulty concentrating

•Constant tiredness

•Low energy

•Feelings of hopelessness

•Feeling worthless or helpless

Losing interest in family friends or favorite activities

Some people may also experience anxiety or feel that their thinking speech or physical movements have become slower. Depression can sometimes be linked with physical complaints such as headaches back pain or other unexplained aches.

How can depression affect the body?

Depression does not only affect emotions. It can also have physical effects on the body. Some people with depression experience digestive problems such as gas acidity constipation or diarrhea.

Constant tiredness and low energy can also make even simple daily tasks feel difficult.

Depression can be treated

Depression is treatable but there is no single treatment that works for everyone.  A mental health professional may recommend treatment based on the person’s symptoms severity and overall condition.

Some people may start feeling better in a relatively short time while others may need longer treatment and regular follow ups. Support from family and friends can also make an important difference.

Instead of calling depression a weakness or telling someone to simply “cheer up,” it is better to listen without judgment and encourage them to seek professional help.

If symptoms continue for a long time or begin to interfere with daily life a qualified psychologist psychiatrist or other mental health professional should be consulted.

If someone is having thoughts of suicide plans to hurt themselves or appears to be in immediate danger do not leave them alone. Seek emergency medical help or contact local emergency services immediately.