Consequences of depression

Depression can affect people in many different ways. It is considered an illness as can bring on many associated physical health symptoms including:

• chronic fatigue

• physical aches and pains that have no apparent source

• increased susceptibility to disease

There are other consequences including:

• sadness and feeling weepy

• numbness, tiredness and a loss of interest in activities

• weight loss - eating less as there is a lack of appetite

• weight gain - eating more for comfort

• substance use and abuse, which could lead to addiction

• losing friends as the person has become so withdrawn

• loss of relationships with family members as the person has lost interest in having conversations and going to family events

• self-injury or suicide

QUESTIONS YOU COULD BE ASKED ON THIS

Write down two consequences of depression. (2marks)

Physical aches and pains

Loss of interest

Explain two ways depression can affect a person's life. (4 marks)

Depression can cause chronic fatigue which can significantly impact daily functioning and overall well-being of a person. (2 marks)

The person may become withdrawn and lose interest in social interactions, leading to losing friends and strained relationships with family members. (2 marks)