Depression hygien
Much of her writing has been for health businesses aiming to increase brand awareness. He completed a doctorate in psychology at the University of Pennsylvania where he continued as a full-time faculty member from to He has been in private practice since See full bio. But is it a formal symptom you can treat? Plus, not taking care of your hygiene can not only worsen your mental health, but your physical health, too. This can help you to get everything completed before you run out of energy and motivation, adds Tai.
Some days dry shampoo and skin-safe wet wipes may be your best friends. The formal symptoms of depression include: low mood, including sadness, guilt, hopelessness, irritability, and anger limited interest in hobbies or low ability to enjoy usual activities difficulty focusing or recalling information changes in sleeping patterns changes in eating habits which may lead. Skipping psychotherapy sessions or medication doses can cause your depressive symptoms to return, according to Mayo Clinic.
Other symptoms of depression that can make it harder to take care of yourself per Mayo Clinic include:. She also runs a lifestyle and career blog for nurses and enjoys mentoring new nurses, providing support as they begin their often-challenging career. If you have major depression , sometimes even the smallest of hygiene tasks may feel insurmountable.
Is Poor Hygiene a Symptom of Depression?
Seth Gillihan, PhD Medical Reviewer Seth Gillihan, PhD, is a licensed psychologist in private practice in Ardmore, Pennsylvania, who helps people find personal growth by making important changes in their thoughts and habits. Some other health conditions linked to poor hygiene, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , include:. You could also give yourself a reminder with a note or your phone calendar to help you stick to that time, adds Tai.
Look for ways to simplify them so you can get through your routine more quickly. Why a Good Hygiene Routine Is Important if You Have Depression Although mustering up the motivation to brush your teeth, shower, and take care of your skin can be very challenging during a depressive episode, not caring for yourself can make you feel even worse. Medically Reviewed. Seth Gillihan, PhD. Next up video playing in 10 seconds.
People who struggle with personal hygiene may also have issues with general functioning, mood, socializing, keeping a job, motivation, self-worth, and staying engaged with treatment, the same study showed. Meet Our Experts. Cook explains. She believes nurses are the delivering hands of healthcare and that supporting nurses is the key to success for healthcare systems. Although few studies on hygiene and depression have been done, one small study published in the July issue of Health and Social Care in the Community showed that personal hygiene and grooming issues are often a top struggle for those with depression.
Personal hygiene and grooming issues can actually hinder your ability to recover from a depressive episode, according to the aforementioned study published in Health and Social Care in the Community. In general, consuming sources of complex carbohydrates can help you feel more energized, adds Tai. Complex carbohydrates — found in whole grains, vegetables, and legumes — are absorbed more slowly by the body than simple carbs — found in foods like baked goods, candy, and soda — and provide you with longer-lasting energy throughout the day.
15 'Hygiene Hacks' for When You're Depressed
She enjoys covering health and wellness, mental health, and nursing topics. His work includes books, podcasts, and one-on-one sessions. Although mustering up the motivation to brush your teeth, shower, and take care of your skin can be very challenging during a depressive episode, not caring for yourself can make you feel even worse. According to Tai, some potential consequences include:. Not having the energy to care for your personal hygiene is common when you have depression.
Cook adds that letting self-care go can trigger other mental health issues such as social isolation, anxiety , and substance use, too. Use Shortcuts When Needed Some days dry shampoo and skin-safe wet wipes may be your best friends. Here's what the experts say.
Scheduling specific times of day to wash your face, brush your hair, or shower can be very helpful, says Tai. He suggests choosing a time of day when you feel like you have the most energy.