Yet, they are interconnected, and one greatly affects the other.

This article will discuss the possible physical symptoms of depression.

It will also cover how to support the body.

person sitting on bed

Justin Paget / Getty Images

Read on to learn more about the physical symptoms of depression.

The first reason is that pain and depression signals occur in the same areas of the brain.

The areas that interpret pain are the same areas of the brain that manage mood.

Elle Markman, PsyD

The second reason is that the neurotransmittersserotoninandnorepinephrineare involved in both pain and depression.

It went on to explain that up to 85% of people with chronic pain also have severe depression.

Fatigue

People with depression can feel run down, low on energy, and fatigued.

They may find it hard to manage everyday activities, work, or go to school.

In fact, 90% of people with depression report symptoms offatigue.

Not only isfatiguea common symptom of depression, but it also often lingers after treatment has begun.

It is a difficult symptom of depression to resolve and can greatly affect a person’s ability to function.

Gastrointestinal Issues

The gut knows what is going on in the brain.

When someone is nervous or anxious, they may feel nauseous or like they have butterflies in their stomach.

This is because the brain and gut affect each other in a bidirectional communication called thebrain-gut axis.

These symptoms can include:

Immune System Dysregulation

Depression and immunity have a close link.

When someone is depressed or stressed, it can cause theirimmune systemto work harder.

This response also stimulates the immune system.

Researchers believe that the link between the immune system and depression goes both ways.

Depression increases the likelihood ofautoimmune conditions, and autoimmune conditions increase the likelihood of developing depression.

Appetite Changes

Depression changes how a person feels, which can also increase or decrease their appetite.

Physical Symptoms of Anxiety

Anxiety, like depression, can cause many physical symptoms.

It’s important to know these signs to help recognizedepression in loved ones.

Depression may seem to some like a condition that only affects the mind.

However, the mind and the body are interconnected and cannot be separated.

When someone experiences significant mental health changes, the body can respond in various ways.

Depression Signs and Symptoms

Signs and symptomsare two terms that are used interchangeably.

Signs of depression may be weight loss, weight gain, or activity level changes.

Symptoms of depression could be sadness, loneliness, or feelings of emptiness.

The first step in supporting the body is to see a healthcare provider.

Receiving adequate depression treatment is necessary to feel better.

Summary

Depression is a common mental health condition that causes significant changes to the mind and body.

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Harvard Health Publishing.Recognizing and easing the physical symptoms of anxiety.

NHS.Symptoms depression in adults.

National Library of Medicine.Sign or symptom.