A South Korean study pointed out that a weak handshake can be an early indicator of depression. Know the symptoms of the disease
Scientists at Yonsei University Medical School in South Korea suggest that a simple handshake has a lot to say about a person, including their mental health. The South Korean study pointed out that a weak grip can be an early sign of depression. To reach this conclusion, the researchers surveyed 51,000 adults from six countries, all over the age of 45.
How the study was done
The research team measured the volunteers’ grip strength with a dynamometer. Next, they compared the results to a mental health assessment. Respondents should rate statements such as, “I am annoyed by things that don’t usually concern me” and “I felt that everything I did was wasted effort,” for example.
People who had less strength in their hands were up to three times more likely to agree with negative statements, a behavior that is already associated with depression. “A timely assessment of hand grip strength may aid in the early diagnosis of depression risk among middle-aged and older adults,” suggest the paper’s authors.
Researchers have not identified a specific reason for the relationship between depression and hand weakness. However, they suggest that a weak grip may be associated with a lack of physical activity, which is also often linked to deteriorating mental well-being. The authors emphasize that while the method can assist in the diagnosis, it is not a substitute for a proper psychological evaluation.
symptoms of depression
The lifetime prevalence of depression in Brazil is about 15.5%, the Ministry of Health points out. Also according to the chart, the indicative signs of depression are:
- depressed mood: feelings of sadness, self-worth and guilt. They believe that they have irreversibly lost the ability to experience pleasure or joy. Everything seems empty, the world is seen without colors, without shades of joy. Many are more apathetic than sad, referring to “a feeling of lack of feeling.” They see themselves as a burden to family and friends, calling for death as relief for themselves and their families. They make a negative assessment of themselves, the world and the future. They perceive difficulties as insurmountable, having a desire to put an end to a painful state. Additionally, suicidal thoughts range from wishing you were dead to detailed plans to kill yourself. These thoughts need to be systematically investigated;
- engine lag, lack of energy, laziness or excessive fatigue, slow thinking, lack of concentration, complaints of lack of memory, will and initiative;
- Insomnia or drowsiness: Insomnia is usually intermediate or terminal. Sleepiness is more associated with depression called atypical;
- Appetite: usually decreased, may occur in some forms of depression increased appetite, with increased interest in carbohydrates and sweets;
- Decreased sexual interest;
- Widespread physical pain and symptoms such as malaise, tiredness, indigestion, chest pain, rapid heartbeat, sweating.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
