8 Common Somatic Symptoms of Depression
Despite being labeled a mental disorder, research indicates depression can also manifest as somatic pain and symptoms such as bodily aches and stomach pain.
Somatic symptoms can tell if you are depressed, heralding a depressive episode, and indicate that your health could be in danger due to depression. This is why it is crucial to keep the physical symptoms and emotional effects of depression in check.
The following are 8 common somatic symptoms of depression
1. Tiredness and Fatigue
Fatigue of depression, a prevalent symptom of this condition, may manifest as feelings of lethargy, persistent tiredness, or significantly reduced energy levels compared to the usual fatigue. This depressive fatigue often presents alongside apathy, difficulties in concentration, and irritability. It's important to note that fatigue can also result from infections and viruses, making it challenging to discern whether the tiredness is due to depression. To ascertain if feelings of exhaustion are related to depression, observe whether the fatigue is accompanied by emotional symptoms such as sadness, anhedonia, or hopelessness, as these can serve as indicators of depression.
2. Decreased Pain Tolerance
A 2015 study indicates individuals with depressive symptoms have a lower pain tolerance. Additionally, research from 2010 found that individuals with depression experience more significant impacts from pain compared to those without depressive symptoms. Other studies have shown that antidepressants, besides alleviating depressive symptoms, also help relieve pain.
3. Back Pain
Although back pain is often associated with incorrect posture or injury, it is also a symptom of depression. Emotional and back pain are accepted to be interconnected. However, further research is needed to explore the relationship between depressive symptoms and bodily inflammation.
4. Headaches
Headaches are a common symptom experienced by many, often overlooked as insignificant. However, they can be indicative of depressive disorders. The National Headache Foundation explains that depression-related headaches are typically dull and not severe, occurring around the forehead. While over-the-counter medications may provide relief, if tension headaches become chronic, they may be a sign of major depressive disorder (MDD).
5. Changes in Vision
Several studies indicate that depression may cause changes in how individuals perceive their surroundings. A 2021 study with 140 participants found that individuals with depression had reduced Contrast Suppression (a decrease in the sharpness of objects in the foreground against a background that should be more muted). Researchers suggested that this change was not likely due to alterations in eyesight but rather patterns in how the brain processes visual information, resulting in a faded perception.
6. Abdominal Discomfort
Abdominal discomfort, including nausea, cramps, or bloating, is a distinct sign of depression. The Harvard Medical School research indicates that depression is both a cause and a side effect of inflammation in the intestines. The gut, often called the "second brain," has a cause-and-effect influence on mental health. Imbalances in gut bacteria can contribute to depression symptoms, and maintaining a balanced diet, including probiotic-rich foods, may positively impact mood. However, more research is necessary for confirmation.
7. Digestive System Symptoms
Digestive system symptoms, such as constipation and diarrhea, may stem from emotional distress, such as anxiety, sadness, or intrusive thoughts. The bidirectional relationship between depression and digestive symptoms indicates that individuals diagnosed with depression are more likely to experience digestive issues and vice versa. While some associations exist, a clear causal relationship remains elusive.
8. Change in Appetite and Weight
People with depression may experience a loss of appetite or, conversely, crave specific types of food, leading to weight fluctuations. Some individuals may lean towards consuming more carbohydrates, resulting in weight gain.
The conclusion regarding the physical symptoms of depression.
In summary, depression manifests in both somatic and emotional symptoms. You should seek out psychiatric evaluation and possible treatment, including psychotherapy and medication if you experience the abovementioned symptoms and suspect they may be related to depression.
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