If left untreated, depression and its symptoms may lead to a variety of social and mental complications. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), depression and related illnesses can affect about 1 in 5 people. Certain traumatic events such as natural disasters, the loss of a friend or family member, or financial troubles can spur or increase depression in a person.
Social Displacement
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, depression interferes with your daily routine, normal social and health-related functioning, and causes pain for both the individual diagnosed with the disorder and for the people who care about him. Depression causes a person to experience feelings of intense grief, sadness and uselessness. These feelings often create social barriers that over time work to diminish relationships and connections with the outside world. Although depression may be a common illness, it is to be taken very seriously. Most people who experience depression need treatment in order to get better.
Malnutrition and Fatigue
Depression may also cause deterioration in your health. According to an article on depression by the Mayo Clinic, if you are depressed you may experience changes in eating patterns and appetite that will undoubtedly have an effect on how your body functions and uses energy. Depression can cause fatigue due to symptoms of insomnia, restlessness and the inability to get a good night's rest. Lack of interest in pleasurable activities may increase due to less energy and the changes in eating habits. In serious cases, depression may also lead to unconscious starvation in individuals who simply don't feel the need to eat.
Anxiety
Anxiety is another common disorder that can accompany depression. Anxiety that develops with depression may lead to excessive worrying or inconsistent thought processes that interfere with normal daily activities. Anxiety often leads to other symptoms such as muscle tension, irritability, sweating, nausea or diarrhea. An article on anxiety by the Mayo Clinic reports that medications may be a beginning treatment in the healing process for both anxiety and depression. Exercise is another possible treatment for depression because it allows you to focus on clear-cut goal setting, success and progression.
