As thyroid disease cases continue to rise globally, so have mental health issues are on rise. 

Did you know thyroid disease can affect your mental health ?

Yes, thyroid disease can affect your mental health. In fact, both these conditions are closely linked with each other. In general, the more severe the thyroid disease, the more pronounced the impact on mental health. 

Thyroid gland : What To Know

Thyroid gland is a small butterfly-shaped gland situated in your neck. It produces, stores and release hormones into the bloodstream that regulate many bodily processes. Your thyroid gland produces the hormones thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Both regulate many aspects of your health and well-being, including mood. 

Thyroid gland is an important part of the endocrine system that regulates metabolism, body temperature and even monthly menstrual cycles.

When thyroid gland is working as it should, it maintains optimal levels of thyroid hormones in your blood. But some thyroid conditions can cause imbalances in these hormones, lead to symptoms of thyroid disorders including mood swings. 

The link between thyroid and mental health

While the primary symptoms of thyroid are related to the disease itself, many people also experience mental health issues. 

Yes, thyroid dysfunction not only disrupt hormonal levels, but it also has implications on the mental health of those affected.

Abnormal thyroid hormone levels are responsible for psychological symptoms due to unsettle emotions. And, therefore your thyroid status could be a risk factor for impaired emotional health and subsequently health-related quality of life. 

Hyperthyroidism occurs when an over active thyroid produces an excessive hormones. With hyperthyroidism, mood changes may include anxiety, nervousness and irritability. Anxiety could be the result of thyroid itself or worries about managing the things of daily life.

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough hormones. With hypothyroidism, mood changes may include sadness, depression and unusual tiredness. Low mood, difficulty enjoying things, tearfulness, loss of appetite and disturbed sleep are commonly noted.

Whatever kind of thyroid disorder you develop, it will likely make you feel more emotional. Unstable thyroid leads to unstable hormone release and rapid changes in hormone levels can cause emotional concerns. Your mood can change, sometimes rapidly and unpredictably. 

A thyroid disorder can also cause changes in appearance – for instance weight loss or gain, or loss of hair which can contribute to feelings of low self-esteem or distorted body image. The struggle extends beyond personal acceptance to a negotiation with societal beauty standards. 

In women, thyroid dysfunction can affect reproductive hormone too. The difficulty in conceiving or infertility adds another layer of emotional distress.

Sometimes, a sheer stress of battling thyroid dysfunction lead to increase level of anxiety and depression.

There is also a rare form of significant mental illness called myxedema psychosis, caused by severe long-term hypothyroidism. Myxedema is characterized by extreme agitation, paranoia, psychosis, delusions, hallucinations, aggressiveness and dementia. It usually resolves over time with aggressive thyroid hormone replacement therapy.

This connection highlights the need for awareness around thyroid disorders and mental health. 

Navigating thyroid dysfunction with collective strength

Thyroid health is often a neglected health issue just because many of us are simply unaware of the impact of poor thyroid on overall well-being. Majority of people with thyroid dysfunction are unaware of this condition and seek therapy for mental issues first because they do not suspect something is abnormal with their physical health. 

Many patient with thyroid dysfunction almost always present symptoms of mental problems, and due to this, many of them have been misdiagnosed with mental illness when the root cause is actually a thyroid disorder.

While many of the physical symptoms are recognized and treated by medical professionals far too little attention is prioritized on emotional well-being.

Treatment of thyroid diseases usually include medicines that improve disease symptoms and uplift mood too. With stabilization of thyroid symptoms, emotional health problems get improve. Right diagnosis and correct treatment can do wonders in your life. 

The emphasis on cultivating a healthy relationship with food and body movement, exemplifies the profound influence of adoption of healthy lifestyle. 

Likewise, becoming part of support group and sharing experiences fosters understanding, empathy, and a sense of belonging. It provides individual with the strength and resilience needed to navigate the complexities of disease. Being a part of such community make sure that you are heard, understood, and supported. Together, through kindness, awareness, and shared experiences, you can navigate the challenges of thyroid dysfunction with resilience and compassion.

Let’s cultivate a supportive community where understanding flourishes and you feel encouraged to share your stories without fear and judgement.

The journey is a test of resilience but with proper guidance it becomes more manageable and hopeful.

Disclaimer 

Mediclin Brain Health’s content is for informational and educational purposes only. Our website is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.