Major Depression and Body Pain

The effects of depression aren’t all in your head. About 30 percent of those diagnosed with clinical depression also have persistent body pain. And research shows that as painful symptoms get worse, so do psychological complaints. That’s because brain functions that let us feel and manage PAIN are closely aligned with brain functions that produce feelings of depression and anxiety. Research shows that both PAIN and DEPRESSION travel along the same neurological pathways and the same neurotransmitters, serotonin and norepinephrine, are responsible for regulating them.  When body pain is associated with DEPRESSION, the pain often comes on as ACHES or SHARP SENSATIONS in the head, back, chest, stomach and joints. Some people also experience bouts of fatigue and exhaustion, no matter how much sleep and rest they get. Unfortunately, many doctors aren’t aware that pain symptoms can be associated with depression and they search in vain for some other physical source.  Some studies suggest that if physicians evaluated all pain patients for mood disorders , they might discover that 60 PERCENT of them had UNdiagnosed depression.  If you suffer from undiagnosed chronic pain OR have been diagnosed with depression and pain in combination, treatment may include: *Medication, such as antidepressants *Cognitive-behavioral therapy to ease depression and help you change your pain response * Stress management, including relaxation techniques, hypnosis, or biofeedback * Supportive individual and or family counseling. Keep in mind, it might take some time to find the right treatment or combination of treatments to ease your pain AND manage your depression. But if you work with your doctor, the chances are very good that you will find what works for you.