Depression is a complex mental illness that doesn’t always present with debilitating sadness. According to Richard Kravitz, M.D., M.S.P.H., a professor of internal medicine at the University of California, Davis, patients are often reluctant to consider depression as a cause of their symptoms because they may equate it with weakness or don’t associate those symptoms with depression.
Recognizing the link between traditional depression symptoms and other disruptions to well-being can help individuals get the treatment they need. Simon Rego, Psy.D., a professor of clinical psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, notes that depression can manifest in various ways, making it essential to be aware of subtle signs.
One of the surprising symptoms of depression is chronic pain. 56% of people with depression or anxiety also experience chronic pain, compared to just 17% of those who don’t have depression or anxiety. This is because depression and pain share some of the same biological pathways and neurotransmitters.
Weight gain is another symptom linked to depression. Multiple studies have confirmed a link between depression and obesity, with researchers noting that having depression makes weight gain more likely, while being overweight or obese also increases the chances of developing depression.
Rage or anger can be a sign of depression, as it’s not uncommon for these emotions to present together. Dr. Rego explains that once an individual is in a negative state, they’re more accessible to other negative moods, such as irritability, frustration, and anger.
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Feeling like a zombie, or experiencing a lack of motivation, is another hallmark of depression. Dr. Rego notes that people with depression often have a diminished response to things that once brought them joy or tears, making them seem cold, distant, or aloof.
Excessive drinking and constantly scrolling social media are also potential signs of depression. These behaviors can be coping mechanisms for individuals dealing with depression, but they can also exacerbate the condition.
It’s essential to recognize these subtle signs of depression, as they can help individuals seek treatment and improve their overall well-being.
Depression can manifest in various ways, from chronic pain to emotional numbness, highlighting the need for increased awareness and understanding.
They can take the first step.
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