Did You Know That Depression Can Be Physical?

Hi there,

Depression and anxiety are common co-occurring disorders.  At one time or another the likelihood that you or someone you know will have experienced depression and/or anxiety are high.  While depression is a mental disorder, it is important to recognize that it has physical symptoms.  Four major criteria are physical symptoms.  

Here are the criteria from the DSM-5:

1. depressed mood
2. little interest in activities you once enjoyed
3. weight gain/loss
4. insomnia/hypersomnia
5. restlessness
6. loss of energy
7. feeling worthless
8. inability to concentrate
9. suicidal ideation

Some individuals experience physical symptoms much more so than the emotional symptoms such as feelings of worthlessness or sadness.  It is important to take into account the likelihood someone could be depressed if they are presenting with many physical symptoms (of course having made sure medical causes have been ruled out).  This is especially important when treating clients from different cultural backgrounds who may be more readily inclined to endorse physical rather than emotional symptoms.  Ask when their last physical was and any prior pertinent medical history before making your differential diagnosis!

Dr. S