Similar to how physical issues be it injuries or simply a lack of fitness causes a mental stress and a sense of mental weariness, having depression (which is a mental disorder) can cause an array of physical symptoms as well. Physical symptoms are but one of the several symptoms that can initiate due to the disorder. Most patients however, tend to be unaware of this and assume that the physical symptoms are indicative of another disease which can lead to further mental stress.
Physical depression symptoms are fairly common and should be attributed to the mental disorder if depressed individuals complain of physical discomfort. Of course, there are specific physical symptoms of depression that are experienced which we will look at below.
One of the most common physical symptoms of depression is headaches. Depressed people tend to constantly complain of a gnawing, persistent headache. Relieving this is done via painkillers and recurring consumption of painkillers can also worsen the depressed state of mind. Headaches may also be caused by mental strain as well as being tensed. One of the other main physical aspects affected is your sleep. Insomnia and hypersomnia are also considered as one of the physical symptoms of depression.
Physical symptoms of depression and anxiety may sometimes be closely related. Ironically, the mental status of depression and anxiety appear to be completely opposite. Depression is associated with apathy while anxiety is concerned with being overly concerned. It is common to experience anxiety related symptoms as well such as palpitation as well as heartburn. While this is not a usual symptom of depression, it is possible.
Another system that is affected which causes further physical signs is your digestive system. You may have an insatiable appetite or you may have no appetite at all. You may also experience nausea and a general, overall feeling of not being well. If other digestive symptoms are present, other possible complications should first be ruled out.
Besides this, pain virtually anywhere is possible after being diagnosed with the condition. This includes typical physical pain experienced due to exertion such as back pain or pain in the limbs. Due to the fact that the symptoms are disguised and generic, it can be hard to pin point the symptom to depression. However, if you tend to experience these symptoms out of the blue and have been feeling down lately, there is a good chance the pain is due to the onset of depression.
Physical symptoms and depression tend to have a very apparent connection. If you have been diagnosed with depression and are experiencing severe physical symptoms, don’t be alarmed. It is most likely an effect of the depression.