Depression is a critical mental health disorder characterized by persistent sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities. It can affect a person’s ability to function in their daily life and can also cause a wide range of physical symptoms. The symptoms of depression may vary from person to person and may change over time. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the most common physical symptoms of depression.
Signs that you may have depression
1. Fatigue and decreased energy:
Fatigue and decreased energy are one of the most common physical symptoms of depression. Depression may make you feel tired, sluggish, and sad, even when you slept well. It may also become hard to get out of bed in the morning or have trouble completing daily tasks.
2. Changes in appetite and weight (increase or decrease):
Changes in appetite and weight are other common physical symptoms of depression. Those suffering from depression may lose their appetite and lose weight, while others may feel more hungry and gain weight. The changes in appetite and weight can be due to changes in the levels of certain hormones in the body, such as cortisol and ghrelin, which can affect your mood.
3. Sleeping too much or too little:
Sleeping too much or too little is another common symptom of depression. Depression can lead to difficulty falling asleep or getting sound sleep at night. Changes in sleep patterns can be due to changes in the levels of certain hormones, such as melatonin and serotonin, which can affect your sleep and mood.
4. Difficulty making decisions:
Difficulty making decisions is another sign of depression. If you are going through depression, you may have trouble making decisions due to a lack of motivation or low energy. You may also find it tough to weigh the pros and cons of different options, making it difficult to make choices.
5. Self-harm:
Thoughts of suicide or self-harm are severe symptoms of depression, due to which you should seek help as soon as possible. Depression may lead you to self-harm. In this case, it is vital to get help from a Psychiatrist.
6. Loss of interest in activities:
Loss of interest in activities or hobbies is also a symptom of depression. If you suffer from depression, you may lose interest in things you once enjoyed, such as hobbies, sports, or social activities. It can be due to a loss of motivation and a decrease in the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, such as dopamine, that are responsible for making you feel pleasure.
7. Lack of concentration:
People with depression may have trouble focusing and paying attention, making it almost impossible to complete tasks or remember information. Changes in the levels of certain chemicals in the brain, such as acetylcholine, can lower concentration. All kinds of work, even housework, require focus. If you are lacking in it, it can make you even more miserable. It may be best to consult a Psychiatrist in Islamabad to avoid disruption in your daily life.
8. Feelings of worthlessness or guilt:
Depression may make you feel worthless or guilty, even when there is no logical reason for these feelings. It may also make you feel guilty for not being able to enjoy things or for not being able to take care of yourself or others.
Conclusion
Depression is one of the most unrecognized common conditions, as many people may not take mental health seriously. It can lead to severe health problems if left untreated. Depression is a medical illness that can negatively affect your feelings, thinking, and actions. Depression is manageable and curable, so consulting a professional can make you feel better.
