Effects of depression

Depression isn’t a single disorder, but rather a class of conditions separated by severity and duration.

It doesn’t just affect the mind; it also affects the body. It’s easy to dismiss these symptoms as stemming from another condition, but they are often because of depression.

There are several physical and emotional signs and effects from which a person suffers during the depression. such as 

Immunity

Depression can also make a person’s immune system work less optimally, meaning they're more likely to get sick. When someone with a weakened immune system does get sick, it may take longer for them to get better.

Some infections, like the common cold, are generally not serious. However, a weak immune system puts a person at risk of developing complications from an infection or contracting an infection that is harder to treat.

Sleep Problems

When doctors and mental health professionals are considering a diagnosis of depression, sleep disorders are among the “core” symptoms they look for. 

People who are depressed often have trouble sleeping. Problems may range from struggling to fall or stay asleep, being unable to get restful sleep, or sleeping too much.

The relationship between depression and sleep goes both ways, as having trouble sleeping for any reason (such as a medical condition like sleep apnea) increases a person’s risk for depression.

Fatigue

People who are depressed often feel that no matter how much they sleep, they never feel rested. They may have a hard time getting out of bed in the morning or struggle to perform activities of daily living, such as bathing or doing household chores. 

Although having low energy can certainly be related to poor sleep, research has indicated that the relationship between depression and fatigue is more complex. 

Fatigue is not only one of the most common physical effects of depression but tends to be one of the more challenging to treat. One study from 2010 found that even after starting an antidepressant, fatigue persisted in around 80% of people with major depression.

High Blood Pressure

People who are depressed may be under stress often or for a long period. While it’s not the only cause, chronic stress has been known to contribute to high blood pressure (hypertension).

Appetite and Weight Changes

Depression in and of itself can make someone feel like eating more or less than they typically do. People who are depressed may report they have lost weight without trying or have gained weight without being sure of the reason why. 

Depression can also cause someone to lose weight. Loss of appetite, low energy, and motivation that makes preparing meals difficult, bowel symptoms, and other factors may cause weight loss in someone who is depressed. People who have eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa, often also have depression or another mental illness.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

People with depression may have frequent stomach problems, such as nausea, bloating, diarrhoea, or constipation. 

One possible explanation for these symptoms involves a neurotransmitter in the brain and gut called serotonin. The brain chemical is linked to depression because it is believed to help regulate mood, but researchers also know that it also plays a role in maintaining digestive function.