Most of us are aware of the emotional symptoms of depression. But many people with depression live with physical symptoms, too.
Mental illnesses aren’t all in your head as it can cause real changes in your body too. For example, it can slow down your digestion and can lead to stomach problems.
These symptoms can occur due to many conditions and people with depression don’t realize that their physical problems might also be caused by their mental illness.
According to Dr. H M Malhotra, Psychiatrist at New Delhi, depression can only be recognized by your mood as it is related to the emotional aspects of an individual. A person can understand when he or she are in their low phase of life, which is a striking symptom of depression. But not only that, even there are the bodily symptoms of depression too-like disrupted sleep, fatigue, digestive problems, and reduced appetite.
ALSO READ| Are You Depressed? You Should Never Ignore These Symptoms
You can always look for these common physical symptoms of depression:
Sleep Problems
Dr. Malhotra said, “Depression can affect your body as well as your mind. Disrupted sleep or staying asleep for hours or even sleeping for more hours than normal can be some common physical symptoms in people who are depressed.”
Fatigue and Lethargy
According to Dr. Malhotra, People who are depressed may feel tired all the time or may find a lack of energy for doing the everyday work. Feeling lethargic all day long may be a sign that you are depressed.
“Depression and fatigue tend to be linked together and can make the condition worse,” she said.
Digestive Problems
Depression often leads to several digestive problems, and can lead to stomachaches or nausea, said Dr. Malhotra.
Our brains and digestive systems are strongly connected and this can be a reason why many of us get stomachaches or nausea when we’re stressed or worried.
According to reports, depression can get in your gut too, and thus can cause nausea, indigestion, diarrhea, or constipation.
ALSO READ| 12 Surprising Facts You May Not Know About Depression
Sexual Problems
In depression, you may not even feel interested in anything that gives you pleasure. You may lose interest in sex as well, says Dr. Malhotra.
Some prescription drugs, suggested for treating depression, can actually take away your sexual drive and affect your performance, says many reports. Talk to your doctor about your medicine options available if needed.
Changes in Appetite or Weight
Dr. Malhotra said, “People in depression may feel less hungry and often don’t want to eat.”
While in some cases people can’t stop eating, and their appetite seems to have increased all of a sudden. Moreover, this can result in weight gain or loss along with a lack of energy.
According to some reports, depression has been linked to eating disorders like bulimia, anorexia, or binge eating.
