Have you ever had sleep problems when your depression hit? What about your sexual abilities and interests? Did they change? Do you feel tired and exhausted most of the time? Does it take your energy from you? These are just a few of the physical symptoms of depression and sadly...there are a few more.
I'd like to share some information today about the physical symptoms of depression and I ask that you give your life some thought when you read this. Now I am not sharing this information to replace the conversation with you doctor!! I am sharing it so you can start one.
If you notice similarities in your life when reading this, please speak to a qualified medical professional. Life comes with many emotions and if you're finding you're stuck...please...reach out for the help you need. I do believe there are things we can learn to help ourselves when the depression hits...we just need to love ourselves enough to know we're worth it and believe that it's okay to ask for help...HINT...IT IS!
YOU are worth it and so is your life...please take good care of you
Sleep Problems
Depression can affect your body as well as your mind. Trouble falling or staying asleep is common in people who are depressed. But some may find that they get too much shut-eye.
Chest Pain
It can be a sign of heart, lung, or stomach problems, so see your doctor to rule out those causes. Sometimes, though, it's a symptom of depression.
Depression can also raise your risk of heart disease. Plus, people who've had heart attacks are more likely to be depressed.
Fatigue and Exhaustion
If you feel so tired that you don't have energy for everyday tasks -- even when you sleep or rest a lot -- it may be a sign that you're depressed. Depression and fatigue together tend to make both conditions seem worse.
Aching Muscles and Joints
When you live with ongoing pain it can raise your risk of depression.
Depression may also lead to pain because the two conditions share chemical messengers in the brain. People who are depressed are three times as likely to get regular pain.
Digestive Problems
Our brains and digestive systems are strongly connected, which is why many of us get stomachaches or nausea when we're stressed or worried.
Depression can get you in your gut too -- causing nausea, indigestion, diarrhea, or constipation.
Headaches
One study shows that people with major depression are three times more likely to have migraines, and people with migraines are five times more likely to get depressed.
Changes in Appetite or Weight
Some people feel less hungry when they get depressed. Others can't stop eating. The result can be weight gain or loss, along with lack of energy.
Depression has been linked to eating disorders like bulimia, anorexia, or binge eating.
Back Pain
When it hurts you there on a regular basis, it may contribute to depression. And people who are depressed may be four times more likely to get intense, disabling neck or back pain.
Agitated and Restless
Sleep problems or other depression symptoms can make you feel this way. Men are more likely than women to be irritable when they're depressed.
Sexual Problems
If you're depressed, you might lose your interest in sex. Some prescription drugs that treat depression can also take away your drive and affect performance. Talk to your doctor about your medicine options.
Exercise
Research suggests that if you do it regularly, it releases chemicals in your brain that make you feel good, improve your mood, and reduce your sensitivity to pain.
Although physical activity alone won't cure depression, it can help ease it over the long term.
If you're depressed, it can sometimes be hard to get the energy to exercise. But try to remember that it can ease fatigue and help you sleep better.
Article found at WebMD.com all rights belong to them
Reviewed by Joseph Goldberg, MD on July 13, 2015