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Chronic illness and depression
People with chronic medical illness are at a high risk of developing depression. Some very serious medical conditions can trigger depression.
Chronic illness and depression
People with chronic medical illness are at a high risk of developing depression. Normal life events, even in the absence of a chronic illness, can cause depressive episodes. Depression is caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors. So, a chronic illness which interferes with a person’s ability to function well can be a major contributor to depression. The relationship between chronic illness and depression is complex and may vary from person to person.1,2
Further, chronic illness may occur before depression starts, may cause depression, or may even be a result of it. Some very serious medical conditions can trigger depression. A study reported that 40% of people with post-traumatic stress disorder experienced depression 4 months after the initial traumatic event.2
Symptoms to look for
Loss of interest in usual activities
Significant changes in appetite or weight unrelated to chronic illness
Loss of sleep or sleeping too much
Fatigue that is unrelated to chronic illness
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
Slow thinking or difficulty concentrating
Suicidal thoughts or actions
If you are managing a chronic illness and notice these symptoms, talk to your doctor.3 If you experience the symptoms of depression, you can follow the steps below to improve your situation:2,4
See your doctor as soon as possible. Do not wait to get evaluated.
Discuss a good fitness routine with your doctor. Stay active with appropriate exercises for your well-being and medical condition.
Explore the option of “talk therapy” (or psychotherapy) with a professional. There are many types of psychotherapy to help manage negative thinking or see yourself and your situation in more positive ways.
Understand your treatment options. For mild or moderate depression, psychotherapy may be the best option. For more severe or recurring depression, a combination of medication and psychotherapy is often recommended.
How to get help2
Your family doctor can help you decide if you should see a mental health specialist. He or she can also refer you to an experienced psychiatrist or psychologist.
Community mental health centers and peer support groups can help provide support and guidance.
If you have thoughts of suicide or have attempted suicide, and are not sure where to seek help, visit an emergency room doctor who can provide temporary help and point you in the right direction to get further support.
Do not overlook depression occurring with a chronic illness. It is important to get educated about depression and get the help you need.
References
About the Multiple Chronic Conditions Initiative | Initiative on Multiple Chronic Conditions | U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: About the Multiple Chronic Conditions Initiative [Internet]. hhs.gov. 2016 [Cited 11 June 2019]. Available at https://www.hhs.gov/ash/about-ash/multiple-chronic-conditions/about-mcc/index.html
Loss of interest in usual activities
Significant changes in appetite or weight unrelated to chronic illness
Loss of sleep or sleeping too much
Fatigue that is unrelated to chronic illness
Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
Slow thinking or difficulty concentrating
Suicidal thoughts or actions
