What does unintentional weight loss feel like with depression?

Food may seem less appealing, meals may feel like a task, or you may lose interest in shopping and cooking. Weight can fall gradually as appetite and meal routines change. Other experiences can include persistent sadness or emptiness, loss of pleasure, poor concentration, tiredness, guilt, slowed activity, or sleep changes. Some people with depression eat more rather than less, so weight change is not identical for everyone.

Unintentional weight loss does not establish depression. Physical illness, medication effects, appetite problems, and other mental health conditions can also alter weight. A compassionate assessment can look at both emotional and physical wellbeing.

Arrange an appointment if weight is falling without a planned reason or if low mood, loss of interest, or appetite change is lasting. Tell the clinician about sleep, energy, medicines, alcohol or drug use, eating patterns, and any thoughts of self-harm. Small regular meals, easy-to-prepare nourishing foods, and support from someone trusted may help while you seek care. A clinician can assess physical causes and discuss psychological or medical treatment.

Get immediate help if you may harm yourself, feel unable to stay safe, or are confused, faint, severely weak, or unable to keep fluids down. Contact a clinician promptly when weight loss is continuing, eating has become very difficult, or daily functioning is deteriorating. If someone is at immediate risk, stay with them and contact local emergency services.

Could depression be affecting my appetite and weight? Should we check for physical causes too? What support is available for low mood and loss of interest? What should I do if thoughts of self-harm appear?