Understanding the Physical Symptoms of Depression

Depression causes a number of physical symptoms that cannot be explained with another illness. Chronic fatigue, widespread pain and sleep disorders are ailments brought on by depression.

Identification

• Symptoms of depression can easily be ailments on their own. Chronic fatigue and sleep disorders are two symptoms that can lead to a serious health concern. Weight gain or loss from depression can also lead to nutritional deficiencies and weight related illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease.

Significance

• Depression not only leads to other ailments, but some other ailments or chronic conditions may lead to depression. Treatments that are sought to relieve other ailments may lead to a diagnosis of depression when all symptoms are observed collectively. The physical symptoms of depression are often overlooked as a part of the mental illness.

The Facts

• According to the September 2004 issue of the Harvard Mental Health Letter, patients with depression are three times more likely to develop chronic pain. Harvard Health Publications has also published an article claiming that more than fifty percent of patients with depression visiting the doctor complain of only physical symptoms.

Solution

• Antidepressant medications treat both chronic pain conditions and depression. Some pain management clinics treat both depression and chronic pain together to avoid the never- ending cycle of depression caused pain and pain caused depression.

Warning

• Depression is a progressive illness that gets worse without treatment. Physical symptoms of the condition can be treated alongside psychotherapy and antidepressant medication.