Does depression cause loss of appetite?

Depression may reduce interest in food, make cooking feel like too much effort, or change the way food tastes and feels. Some people forget meals because of low motivation; others eat more when distressed. Loss of appetite may occur with low mood, loss of interest, fatigue, sleep changes, poor concentration, or guilt. Most people with Depression notice loss of appetite, but this symptom alone does not identify depression.

Infection, stomach or dental problems, medication effects, thyroid conditions, pain, grief, and other illnesses can also reduce appetite. A clinician considers eating and drinking, mood, physical symptoms, medicines, and the change over time.

Choose small, easy-to-prepare meals and nourishing snacks when a full meal feels difficult. Keep fluids available and ask someone you trust to share meals or help with shopping. Note what you manage to eat and drink, along with nausea, pain, mood, and medicines.

Arrange a medical review if reduced appetite persists, affects strength or daily activities, or appears with depression symptoms. Do not stop prescribed medicine without advice; a clinician can check whether treatment or another health problem is contributing.

Seek urgent help if you cannot keep fluids down, feel faint or confused, have severe weakness, or have thoughts of self-harm. Contact a clinician promptly for ongoing vomiting, severe abdominal pain, difficulty swallowing, or inability to meet basic food and fluid needs.

Could depression explain my reduced appetite, or should we check a physical cause? How can I maintain food and fluid intake safely? Could any medicine be affecting hunger? When would I need advice from a dietitian or another specialist?