Depression is a common mental disorder, affecting millions of adults in the United States every year. Although depression primarily impacts mood and can leave you feeling sad, hopeless, and apathetic, it can also have a profound effect on your physical well-being. Discuss any symptoms of depression with your doctor. Here’s what you should know about why treating it may be the key to improving your overall health and wellness. 

What Is Depression?

Everyone gets sad from time to time. We’ve all experience loss and disappointment. But when those feelings of sadness last longer than two weeks, your doctor is likely to diagnose depression. The exact cause of depression is unknown, but it’s believed to stem from a combination of factors that influence chemical reactions within the brain. Trauma, medication, and genetics all influence brain chemistry that determines moods and perceptions. The symptoms of depression include inability to sleep, loss of appetite, irritability, social isolation, fatigue, weight loss or gain, and difficulty concentrating. 

How Does Depression Affect Health?

Depression increases the risk of cardiovascular disease because it constricts blood vessels and impedes blood flow. Depression can also weaken your immune system, leaving you susceptible to colds and infections. Insomnia and other sleep disorders, which can contribute to obesity, are common. Depressed patients may experience gastrointestinal issues, complaining of nausea and diarrhea. In addition, depression can cause chronic pain and increase pain sensitivity. 

How Is Depression Managed? 

If your doctor diagnoses you with depression, they’ll likely recommend a combination of treatments, including therapy, medication, and lifestyle modifications. Antidepressants have proven effective for many sufferers, but exercise and healthy eating are also beneficial. If your doctor refers you to a therapist, they may recommend self-care and relaxation techniques. Meditation, for example, is known to relieve some symptoms of depression.

You don’t have to live with depression. Get help for your depressive symptoms from a compassionate doctor at 1st Choice Healthcare. Since 1994, their team has provided personalized medical care that addresses both mind and body to patients throughout Corning, AR, including mental health services, immunizations, wellness exams, and women’s health services. Call (870) 857-3399 to schedule an appointment, or visit their website for more information about their practice.