The physical signs of depression

Sometimes it can be hard to recognize depression in a loved one, or even ourselves, but if we look close enough, the body will be giving us signs.

The human brain is an amazing thing.  The human body, even more incredible.  If we learn to listen to both, we can achieve great things.

When it comes to identifying depression, there is a lot of emphasis on the mental signs we should be looking for.  However, the physical signs can be just as telling.  When the mind is struggling, the body is usually not far behind. 

Here are five signs to look for that are possible physical symptoms of depression:

Dramatic weight change:  Depression can cause erratic swings in appetite either through an increase in eating or alternatively a complete loss of appetite.

Headaches:  Most of us have experienced a headache because we are stressed. However, when the headaches become the norm rather than a rarity, it could be a chronic tension type of headache caused by a more serious emotional problem such as depression.

Sleeping difficulties: Changes in your usual sleep pattern such as insomnia or alternatively sleeping too much, are indicators that there is something emotive interfering with your body’s need to sleep.

Digestive Problems:  If you are experiencing constant problems with digestion such as constipation, nausea, diarrhea, or loss of appetite, this could be caused by stress, anxiety or depression.

Exhaustion: If you are feeling physically exhausted all the time in addition to feeling completely unmotivated, this can also be a sign of a mental health issue.

It is worth noting that sometimes there are other medical factors which could be causing these symptoms which is why it is important to speak to a professionalwho can discuss and pinpoint the cause of these symptoms.

For more information on organisations who can assist with dealing with depression, visit our Getting Help Page.