Physical Symptoms of Depression

You may be familiar with the emotional signs of depression — but sadness can also cause physical symptoms, from digestive problems to actual heartache.

 

By Beth W. Orenstein

Medically reviewed by Pat F. Bass III, MD, MPH

Though the hallmark symptoms of depression are emotional (such as feelings of sadness and hopelessness), depression may also come with physical symptoms, including nausea, diarrhea, pain, and weight changes. Too often, however, people simply dismiss these health issues or fail to seek proper treatment because they don’t realize what’s going on. “I’ve had folks who were referred to me by the ER because that’s where they went for their symptoms,” says Robin Haight, PsyD, a psychologist in private practice in Vienna, Va.
Don’t ignore possible physical symptoms of depression: Pain and other changes in your health can actually be the first signs of depression, and knowing about possible physical effects of depression may help you get diagnosed and treated earlier. Do you have any of these warning signs?

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Last Updated: 09/16/2011