Depression is a mental illness characterized by feelings of sadness and hopelessness. However, its effects are not restricted to the mind. In fact, the nagging toll of depression on the body often is physically evident. Dark circles under the eyes, pale skin, weight loss, tearfulness and unkempt hair are physical indicators that the body is not only mentally exhausted, but physically exhausted as well.
Headaches
Headaches are a common feature of depression, and remedies such as aspirin may fail to alleviate the pain of a headache caused by depression. According to Dr. Seymour Diamond of the National Headache Association, headaches caused by depression are described as steady pressure that is vice-like in severity. Diamond also reports that a distinguishing feature of depressive headaches are their duration, which patients describe as lasting for years.
Sex
Depression that does not put a damper of sexual urges can interfere physically. Depressed individuals may lack the physical stamina required during sex. Males may experience an inability to have an erection or ejaculate, which can result in a feeling of dissatisfaction. Having sex may be unpleasurable and eventually avoided altogether. These difficulties are further complicated while taking certain anti-depressant medications that may reduce libido.
Fatigue
Fatigue is a symptom of countless diagnosable conditions. The absence of a physical cause for fatigue suggests a psychiatric one may exist, and depression typically is associated with fatigue. Fatigue associated with depression involves a depletion of mental, emotional as well as physical energy. Feelings of fatigue may result in decreased interest in activities, increased sleeping and social isolation, which also are indicative of depression.
Immune System
In the Feb. 10, 2002, issue of the "Journal of Abnormal Psychology," Dr. Lynanne McGuire explained that symptoms of depression can negatively affect the body's ability to fight off viruses and diseases. Specifically, it is the duration of the depression that affects the immune system, whereas the severity of the depression was found to be unrelated. McGuire further wrote that depression can speed up the rate of decline of the immune system.
Disability
The effects depression has on the body can cause marked impairment in everyday functioning if left untreated. Physical deficits can result in a partial or total inability to work. The seriousness of this condition is recognized by the U.S. government, which resulted in the inclusion of depression as a valid disability under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA). Under the ADA, individuals with disabilities should be provided the same opportunity for employment, transportation and public services as individuals without disabilities.
References
- "Journal of Abnormal Psychology"; Depressive Symptoms and Lymphocyte Proliferation in Older Adults; Lynanne McGuire, Janice K. Kiecolt-Glaser and Ronald Glaser; February 2002
- National Headache Foundation: Depression and Headaches
- U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission: Americans with Disabilities Act
