On the YouTube channel Psych Hub – a channel represented by a licensed healthcare professional in the United States – experts highlighted the physical symptoms of depression to help you identify it as early as possible.
Major depressive disorder (MDD) and its impact on physical health
Major depressive disorder (MDD) affects people’s lives in many different ways. To diagnose MDD, at least five symptoms of depression must appear during the same two-week period, with at least one of these symptoms being either diminished interest and pleasure or a depressed mood.
Physical symptoms associated with MDD include: lack of energy, feeling fatigued, reduced movement or speech, restlessness or inability to sit still, and weight fluctuations. Some individuals also experience accompanying symptoms such as unexplained pain, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems.
Facing depression and steps for treatment
There are several steps you can take to address the physical symptoms you’re experiencing:
1. See a doctor
It’s important to rule out other health issues that could be causing physical symptoms. Be sure to share all information about your physical, mental, and emotional symptoms with your doctor.
2. Make a plan and stick to it
There are many things you can do, but you’ll need support from friends and family. Set realistic goals, stay physically active, and ask for help when needed.
3. Learn and keep educating yourself
Always ensure that you communicate openly and honestly with your doctor and other healthcare professionals.
The treatment journey for MDD requires a lot of effort. However, it’s important to maintain a positive attitude and keep working toward treatment goals. Since following some of the advice from my doctor, patients have started to feel better physically, which has made it easier for them to focus on treating other symptoms of MDD. They also go to the gym once a week and make time for friends to increase effectiveness.
The treatment journey may be long, but if you persist and find the right support, everything will become easier.
Watch the full video content HERE.
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