Important Things to Know About Depression

woman leaning on her hand experiencing difficulty at work

There is more to depression than just feeling sad or down. It’s a condition that affects every aspect of a person’s life. While common symptoms like sadness, fatigue, and lack of motivation are well known, there are many aspects of depression that don’t get as much attention. Understanding these lesser-discussed aspects can help you or someone you care about better navigate this condition.

It Can Impact Your Physical Health

When people think of depression, they usually think of emotional symptoms. However, depression can also affect physical health:

Chronic pain: Headaches, joint pain, or back pain may flare up during depressive episodes.
Sleep disturbances: People with depression often have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, or they may sleep too much.
Appetite changes: Depression can either suppress your appetite or lead to overeating, which can contribute to weight changes.

You May Not Feel Sad All the Time

Depression doesn’t always present as constant sadness. Many people with depression describe feeling “numb” rather than overwhelmingly sad. Others experience irritability, frustration, or even anger. This emotional flatness or irritability can be confusing, especially if you don’t connect it to depression right away.

It Can Affect Decision-Making and Concentration

Depression doesn’t just make it harder to get out of bed—it can also cloud your thinking. Tasks that used to be easy may start to feel overwhelming. You might struggle to make decisions, even small ones like what to eat for dinner. Concentration can also become more difficult, making it hard to focus on work or personal tasks.

People Often Hide Their Symptoms

A lot of people with depression don’t show obvious signs. They may smile, go to work, and interact socially, while feeling emotionally drained underneath. This is often referred to as “high-functioning depression.” While they might seem fine to others, they’re struggling internally, which can make it hard for others to recognize their pain.

man of color hiding in a purple hooded jacket

If you suspect someone you care about might be dealing with hidden depression, it’s important to check in on them. Simple questions like “How are you really feeling?” can open the door for them to share what they’re going through.

Treatment Is Not One-Size-Fits-All

When it comes to treating depression, there is no universal solution. What works for one person may not work for another. While medication and therapy are often recommended, lifestyle changes like regular exercise, a healthy diet, and good sleep hygiene can also make a significant difference. Some people benefit from alternative treatments like mindfulness practices, yoga, or participating in support groups.

It Often Coexists with Other Mental Health Issues

Many people with depression also experience anxiety or other mental health challenges. These conditions can feed off each other, making the depression feel even more overwhelming. It’s not uncommon for someone with depression to feel on edge, restless, or panicked.

Stigma Can Delay Treatment

Despite growing awareness of mental health issues, there is still stigma around depression. Some people may feel ashamed to ask for help, worried that they’ll be seen as weak or broken. These feelings are a symptom of the illness, with the depression exacerbating any underlying fears of judgment. This fear can prevent individuals from seeking the support they need.

Next Steps

Depression is a complicated condition that affects each person differently. While the emotional toll is often the focus, depression can also affect physical health, decision-making, and concentration. Many people hide their symptoms, making it hard for others to see what they’re going through. Treatment is not a one-size-fits-all process, and stigma can delay getting help.

By bringing attention to these lesser-known aspects of depression, we can better support ourselves and those around us who may be struggling. If you are ready to accept help in managing your depression, we are here to support you every step of the way. Reach out today to set up an appointment!