How Chronic Illness Can Trigger and Worsen Depression
Chronic illness can be debilitating, life-altering, and exhausting. It can affect not just the body but also the mind and emotional well-being. It is a difficult and frustrating reality for millions of people around the world. One of the most significant challenges people with chronic illness face is the increased risk of developing depression. In this article, we will explore how chronic illness can trigger and worsen depression and how to manage it.
What Causes Depression in Chronic Illness?
Chronic illness can be emotionally taxing. The strain of dealing with the daily life-limiting effects of a long-term illness can take a toll. Illness can trigger depression in several ways, such as:
– Biological factors: Studies have shown that physical illness affects the brain’s chemistry, leading to depression. It is due to the changes in the levels of neurotransmitters, brain chemicals that handle mood.
– Psycho-social factors: Chronic illness can cause psychosocial stress and affect one’s ability to function and do everyday activities. It can lead to feelings of loneliness, frustration, and sadness, which can trigger depression.
– Medications: Some medications used to treat chronic illness can have side effects like depression, which can cause a new depression or worsen an existing one.
What Are the Symptoms of Depression in Chronic Illness?
Depression can manifest itself in many ways, and people with chronic illness are no different. However, some common signs of depression in people with chronic illness include:
– Loss of interest in activities they used to enjoy
– Changes in appetite and weight loss or gain
– Loss of energy and feeling fatigued
– Feelings of worthlessness and unworthiness
– Suicidal thoughts
Strategies for Managing Depression with Chronic Illness
Like any form of depression, it is essential to treat depression in chronic illness. Here are some strategies to help manage depression in chronic illness:
– Seek help: Always seek professional help and support from family and friends to manage depression and chronic illness holistically.
– Medication: Antidepressants can help balance the neurotransmitters that handle mood and bring relief.
– Therapy: Counselling and therapy can provide coping strategies and support managing chronic illness and depression.
– Managing stress: Self-care, exercise, meditation, and relaxation techniques can help reduce stress, which can help with depression.
– Enhance social support: Staying connected to loved ones and friends can help ease the impact of isolation resulting from the chronic illness.
Conclusion
Chronic illness is a challenging reality that millions of people worldwide face daily. It can also increase the risk of depression, leading to further strain on mental and emotional well-being. However, different strategies can help manage depression and chronic illness and improve overall quality of life. These strategies include professional support, medication, therapy, stress management, and enhancing social support. With these strategies, people with chronic illness and depression can lead fulfilling and meaningful lives.
