When to worry about unintentional weight loss with depression

Depression may reduce appetite, pleasure in food, motivation to shop or cook, and the energy needed to maintain regular meals. Some people also experience nausea, sleep disruption, or changes in medication that affect eating. Weight loss should not automatically be attributed to mood: thyroid problems, digestive illness, infection, medication effects, and other conditions can also alter weight. A clinician can consider physical and emotional causes together.

Tell your GP or mental health professional about the change in appetite, weight, sleep, mood, medicines, and daily routine. Try small regular meals, easy-to-prepare foods, and support from someone you trust with shopping or cooking. Keep taking prescribed treatment as directed and ask for a medication review if the change began after a new medicine. A dietitian may help when intake remains limited.

Seek urgent help if you are unable to eat or drink, feel faint or confused, become severely weak, or show signs of dehydration. If depression includes thoughts of suicide, self-harm, or feeling unable to stay safe, contact emergency services or a crisis service immediately and stay with a trusted person if possible. Do not wait for weight monitoring when safety is at risk.

Ask whether a physical assessment or blood tests are appropriate, whether treatment may be affecting appetite, and what food support is available. Ask for a safety plan if hopelessness or self-harm thoughts are present.