Bookmark This Page

Delicious Google Bookmarks Stumbleupon Digg BlinkList Blogmarks Facebook Ma.gnolia Reddit Twitter Yahoo My Web Livejournal

The Physical Symptoms of Depression

Depression has many physical symptoms that can be attributed to it. Many of these signs and symptoms are also common to other illnesses. It is important that these physical symptoms are ruled out or the depression will be left untreated.

Aches and pains are a physical symptom of depression. When a person is depressed their entire body can feel achy. Many people report their bodies feel as if they have worked out intensively in the gym or been beaten up.

Weight loss and weight gain are also a physical symptom of depression. Many people will lose their appetites when they are depressed. Not eating can result in a rapid weight loss. Other people may gain a tremendous amount of weight when they are depressed. Many of these people become inactive and use food as a way to comfort themselves. This results in rapid weight gain.

Constipation and diarrhea are also a physical symptom of depression. Believe it or not, the stomach and brain are connected. If you are depressed it can change the evacuation process of your waste. Some people may have constipation, while others may have diarrhea. Individuals who have Irritable Bowel Syndrome may find that it is aggravated if they are depressed.

Loss of sex drive is also a physical symptom of depression. Many people lose their sex drive in part because they have a low self image. They do not feel attractive and lose interest in sexual activities. Men may suffer from impotence.

Loss of energy is also a physical symptom of depression. People who are depressed usually lose interest in life and activities they once enjoyed. They may feel fatigued and doing the smallest chore such as taking out the garbage or taking a shower can seem like a climb up Mt. Everest.

Headaches and muscular tension can also be a physical symptom of depression. Many people who have depression also have anxiety problems. Stress and anxiety can lead to tension in the scalp, neck and back.

If a person is suffering from an anxiety issue in addition to their depression, they may have panic attacks. Panic attacks are a physical symptom of depression and anxiety. People who suffer anxiety attacks may become more depressed and withdrawn for fear of more attacks.

No one should ever feel that depression is just a part of life. Depression is treatable. With the aid of medication, and possibly therapy, recover is possible. In fact, with treatment nearly 80% of individuals can recover from their depression and get back to living their lives without the monkey on their back.

Some people can overcome their depression without medication. If medication is a concern and something you do not want to do, you can start out with therapy. Other people choose to take medication but have no interest in therapy. Whatever you choose, it is important that you start doing something to help your depression. Talk with your doctor. Tell him your concerns and together you can find a plan that will suit you and your lifestyle.