Why does depression cause unintentional weight loss?

Unintentional Weight Loss is a common presentation of Depression. Food may feel unappealing, shopping and cooking may take more energy than you have, or meals may be skipped when days lack structure. Anxiety, nausea, sleep disruption, and social withdrawal can further reduce intake. Depression is only one possible explanation for weight loss; digestive illness, hormone changes, infection, medicine effects, dental problems, and other conditions can also play a part. A clinician can assess the pattern rather than assuming a single cause.

Contact a GP if you are losing weight without trying, particularly if your appetite has changed or eating feels difficult. Note when the loss began, what a typical day of food and drink looks like, bowel changes, pain, nausea, fever, and medicines. Small, regular meals or snacks may be easier than large portions; choose foods you can prepare safely with little effort and accept practical help with shopping or cooking. Depression care can address mood and energy alongside the physical assessment.

Seek urgent medical assessment if you cannot keep fluids down, are severely weak or faint, have black or bloody stools, vomit blood, develop severe abdominal pain, or become confused. Seek urgent local mental-health help or go to an emergency department if you have suicidal thoughts, thoughts of self-harm, or cannot keep yourself safe.

What physical causes of weight loss should be considered? Could a medicine or a problem with sleep, anxiety, or swallowing be contributing? What support is available if cooking and regular meals feel unmanageable?