Depression and somatic symptoms

Depression is not limited to psychological symptoms. In many cases, emotional suffering takes a physical form, giving rise to what are known as somatic symptoms.

These are not explained by obvious medical causes, but they are real, cause significant discomfort, and can significantly interfere with daily functioning.

Physical manifestations with no apparent medical cause

Somatic symptoms include physical discomforts such as muscle pain, persistent fatigue, gastrointestinal problems, or sleep disturbances.

Although there is no clear organic disease, these signs are often intense and constant, causing both physical and emotional distress.

They frequently become the main reason for seeking medical attention before depression is identified as the underlying cause.

Several studies have shown that up to 80% of people with a depressive disorder experience these types of physical manifestations.

In addition, it has been observed that the presence of multiple somatic symptoms—for example, six or more—significantly increases the risk of developing depression or anxiety.

Physical indicators that make diagnosis difficult

Pain with no clear cause, sleep disorders, changes in appetite, and a constant feeling of exhaustion are some of the signs that may be masking depression.

These symptoms tend to be confused with other physical illnesses, delaying accurate diagnosis.

Even after a partial improvement in mood, physical discomfort may persist, acting as a barrier to full recovery and increasing the likelihood of relapse.

Impact of physical pain on overall well-being

Prolonged physical discomfort affects quality of life and can intensify feelings of hopelessness, isolation, and frustration.

It has also been linked to an increased risk of developing chronic diseases, such as heart or bone conditions.

Physical limitations resulting from pain make it difficult to participate in work, social, and family life, thus deepening the negative impact of depressive disorder.

From a neurobiological perspective, these symptoms are related to an imbalance in the way the brain processes pain.

Alterations in cortisol, serotonin, and norepinephrine levels affect the nervous system's ability to properly regulate pain, sleep, and appetite, perpetuating the cycle of physical and emotional distress.

Therapeutic intervention and a combined approach

The most effective treatment combines medical intervention and psychotherapy.

Antidepressants can relieve both emotional and physical symptoms, while psychotherapy allows the underlying emotions to be addressed and the perception of pain to be modified.

This combination promotes a more robust recovery and reduces the risk of relapse.

Recognizing the relationship between physical pain and depression is essential to providing a comprehensive clinical approach.

When somatic symptoms are treated with the same importance as emotional symptoms, a complete and lasting recovery is more likely.