Depression isn’t a silent illness. What many don’t know is that depression can be severe enough to incite chronic pain. If you suffer from depression and anxiety, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans have experienced some form of depression. We want to offer some encouragement if you or someone you know is feeling more blue than normal these days. Here are some physical symptoms of depression and some ways you can relieve the achy feeling.
Physical Symptoms of Depression
One of the biggest physical symptoms of depression is chronic fatigue. Depression is a mood disorder that can be characterized by lethargy, trembling, muscle aches and pains, and poor sleep. Stomach pain and bowel issues are not uncommon when dealing with depression either. You may also experience headaches and brain fog. Just know that mild forms of depression usually pass. If your depression doesn’t get better and actually worsens, seek help immediately. Never let yourself go through it alone. The next section highlights ways to help in the meantime.
What to Do for Chronic Pain Caused by Depression
The biggest thing when dealing with chronic pain from depression is to be kind to yourself. Talk to someone you trust. Confiding in someone about your physical and emotional pain can be freeing and healing in and of itself. It should be a judgment-free experience, and likely your loved one may have gone through depression themselves. Here are some other practical ways to fight that dreary feeling:
● Exercise
● Over the counter pain relievers
● Antidepressants (talk to a doctor)
● Sleeping medication
● Counseling and therapy
Before tackling any of these possible remedies, be sure to always consult a doctor. Only they can properly determine which one or how many of these options you need to pursue. There may even be something we’ve missed that they can inform you of!
Depression is nothing to be ashamed of, and you’ll find it’s actually quite common the more you talk to others about it. Sometimes our bodies know what’s wrong before we become cognitively aware, which is why chronic fatigue happens. The best thing to remember is to be kind to yourself and speak up when you know you need help. Talk to a doctor, and only begin a regimen after consulting a medical professional first. The journey doesn’t have to be grim! Get help today!
Think you might be suffering from pain due to depression? Maryland Primary Care can offer the help you need!