Although depression is a mental illness, it can also cause physical symptoms.
One possible explanation for these symptoms involves a neurotransmitter in the brain and gut called serotonin.
Most of the body’s serotonin is produced and stored in the gut.
When someone with a weakened immune system gets sick, it may take longer to get better.
Some infections, like the common cold, are generally not serious.
The relationship between immune function and depression is still being researched.
People who are depressed often have trouble sleeping.
Some research has suggested that disturbances in circadian rhythm (which caninterrupt sleep) may contribute to depression.
Even after starting an antidepressant, fatigue persists in many people with major depression.
Depression and fatigue may become part of a cycle where ongoing low energy and decreasedmotivationworsen depression.
Therefore, adequately addressing fatigue is crucial in creating an effective treatment plan for someone diagnosed with depression.
Fatigue is a serious symptom of depression and one that often persists even after treatment.
For example, some people with depression perceive their thoughts as sluggish and feel like their movements seem heavy.
Others experience symptoms at the opposite end of the spectrum.
They may say that they “cant sit still,” or feel fidgety, restless, and agitated.
Mentally, they may experience anxious or evenintrusive thoughts.
To some extent, psychomotor symptoms become more common as someone gets older.
However, while depression in the elderly is also common, it is not a normal part of aging.
High Blood Pressure
People who are depressed may be under stress often or for an extended period.
Chronic stress, in particular, has been linked to elevated blood pressure.
In turn, hypertension increases a persons risk of cardiovascular disease, which includes heart attacks and strokes.
The relationship between weight and depression may depend on more than how much someone weighs.
Weight Loss
Depression can also cause someone to lose weight.
Changes in appetite and accompanying weight loss or gain can also be a side effect of antidepressant medications.
Medication Side Effects
Both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications can come with side effects.
Medications used to treat depression may have side effects, many of which are physical.
For someone who takes medication to manage depression, side effects from antidepressants can be a barrier to treatment.
If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact theNational Suicide Prevention Lifelineat988for support and assistance from a trained counselor.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
However, they wont be able to accuratelydiagnose depressionwithout it.
Before you could begin to deal with the physical effects of depression, you need an accurate diagnosis.
A Word From Verywell
Depression hurts but mentally and physically.
Treatment for depression often involves medication, psychotherapy, and lifestyle changes.
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