Thyroid depression, anxiety and brain fog are some of the mood swings and psychological symptoms that a large number of women struggle with.
Since other thyroid symptoms as heavy periods (irregular or absent), weight gain (loss) and fertility problems are often more disturbing; poor mental wellness is not something that a patient pays much attention to.
Ignorance, lack of attention and acceptance often result in delayed care and worsening relationships. Thyroid patients often find themselves disconnected with their own life and with their loved ones.
That’s why it is really important that the patient and their family members are aware of the thyroid mental wellness challenges.
While thyroid patient can take care of their mental health through stress relieving and mood elevating activities; their family members and support can help them and encourage them in their healing journey.
Let’s take a look into how thyroid affects your mood and what can you do about it. Let’s get started!
How does Thyroid affect your Mental Health?
The effects can either be direct or indirect. In fact, some thyroid disorders can act like they are actually psychiatric disorders. These seen disorders can range from depression to anxiety to even psychosis! Here’s what usually happens:
If you have an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), you may experience:
- Nervousness and Spaciness
- Depression
- Restlessness
- Palpitations
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Sleep Disorders
On the other hand, if you have an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), you may experience:
- Mild to severe fatigue
- Depression
- Brain Fog
- Sleep Disorders
Let’s take a better look at thyroid and poor mental wellness symptoms:
1. Thyroid Depression
Depression frequently occurs in hypothyroidism, where 40% of patients are said to suffer from some form of it. It can also happen in hyperthyroidism. About 31–69% patients of overactive thyroid present with depressive disorders. Aside from depression, wild mood swings also occur.
You know, thyroid disorders and depression share so many symptoms. So much so that the doctors sometimes ignore the fact that a depressed person might also have thyroid hormone imbalance.
When you’re depressed, you feel fatigued and sluggish, your heart beats slower, you’re colder, concentrating is a problem, your skin gets yellow, you suffer constipation, etc. The list goes on and on. The interesting thing here is that most, if not all of these things, are also seen in hypothyroidism.
The only way to be sure is to test the levels of the thyroid hormones T3 and T4.
2. Thyroid Anxiety
About 60% of people with hyperthyroidism present with anxiety disorders. It is also significantly present in hypothyroidism.
Anxiety can result from the interaction of the malfunctioning thyroid with the rest of the body. Alternatively, it can arise due to worries concerning how you will manage your symptoms.
You could get anxious because you’re worried about taking your medications at the exact time. You could worry what you had for lunch wouldn’t worsen your symptoms. Your worry could also be that you are struggling without success to lose weight.
Anxiety can also arise when you are disturbed by all the other symptoms including hair loss, skin problems, etc.
3. Brain Fog and Lack of Focus
Do you remember that hypothyroidism slows down your metabolism? Metabolism is the sum total of all organic processes in your body that are necessary to life.
If your metabolism slows down, everything is affected, including your brain. Consequently, you suffer from a foggy brain. As your body is sluggish, so is your mind also sluggish.
When this happens, you may find that:
- It is difficult for you to think clearly
- You have trouble making decisions
- Your memory is just so poor, etc.
This could also be a sign of hypothyroidism playing games with your mental health.
4. Psychosis in Thyroid Disorders
Psychosis is a mental disorder in which a person has a deranged personality and a distorted view of reality. It could also occur due to physical damage to the brain though.
In psychosis, problems that present include:
- Delusions
- Hallucinations-hearing voices and seeing things
- Paranoia-excessive worry
Psychosis doesn’t show up till after a year or months after the physical symptoms of hypothyroidism have been seen.
Here is an interesting thought: the severity of the psychosis that a patient experiences, does not depend on the degree of imbalance in the thyroid hormones.
5. Cognitive Problems
Cognition is the sum of your perceptions, learning, and reasoning.
Thyroid deficiency can lead to a decline in cognition. This shows up as memory problems and has been linked to dementia. Thankfully, though, if dementia is caused as a result of thyroid deficiency, it is reversible. However, that is only if it is identified and treated on time.
6. Thyroid and your Relationships
Hypothyroidism can indirectly affect your mental health by affecting your relationships.
This can be because you are depressed initially and can’t relate well with others. In a more intimate relationship, your relationship can be hurt by a lowered sex drive.
Ruined relationships can also in turn affect your mental health.
Ayurvedic Self Care Tips for Thyroid Depression and Anxiety
Healthy relationships are key to our mental wellness, however when we are not feeling good, it is hard to maintain our sanity. Often, we end up being angry or disconnected with our loved ones. However, this can create more harm for your Thyroid and for your relationships going forward.
1. Get enough rest: When you are tired, your body is more likely to produce stress hormones that can aggravate anxiety and depression. Make sure to get plenty of rest to help reduce stress levels.
2. Eat a healthy diet: A nutritious diet is important for overall health, but it can also be helpful in managing thyroid depression and anxiety. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, healthy fats, whole grains, and lean protein.
3. Exercise regularly: Exercise has numerous benefits for mental health, including reducing stress levels. A moderate amount of exercise is the best way to start, but even light activity can be helpful.
4. Practice relaxation techniques: Relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help to reduce stress and improve mood.
5. Connect with others: Spending time with family and friends can help to reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness. Getting support from others can also be helpful in managing thyroid depression and anxiety.
6. Seek professional help: If you are struggling to cope with thyroid depression and anxiety, seek professional help from a qualified mental health provider.
How to Overcome Emotional Turbulence and Thyroid Mood Problems?
Here’s how you can take control of your mental health and protect your relationships despite Thyroid Depression, Anxiety and Mood Swings.
1. Anger
When you feel that anger and irritation, try not to take it out on your loved ones. Practice breathing exercises (pranayama), take a break from what you were doing, and just take a few minutes to relax.
It will really help you to put your emotions and thoughts into perspective. And of course save your relationship with your loved ones!
2. Anxiety
Anticipation is a big bummer! How to avoid the after effects of anticipation? When it’s about your actions, do a bit of planning ahead and avoid last minute anxiety.
And when things are not in your hands, then let it go! Don’t keep thinking about it all the time. Divert your attention with other productive tasks.
3. Stress
Control physical stress by avoiding excessive exercising and too much work. And control emotional stress by avoiding stressful events and people in your life.
If you still have to face them, then learn to ignore and move on as stress won’t help you out. Another way to handle stress is by engaging in calming activities to promote your threshold to stress.
4. Depression
Depression is actually a Kapha imbalance in Ayurveda. Handle it by stimulating your brain and body with something new and slightly challenging.
It will open up new pathways of creativity and interest that was hiding in the darkness.
Drawing it all up!
Whenever you struggle with mood swings, depression, anxiety and poor mental wellness symptoms then do not take it lightly. Remember, many of them can’t be confirmed without taking the actual test.
Don’t go taking antidepressants when all you need to do is proper treatment of your Thyroid problems. Do not treat anxiety when the real problem is hypothyroidism.
Now you have seen how thyroid disorders affect your mental health, it is important that you do not ignore it. Keep in mind that early detection is key to restore your body back to the optimum state of health that it deserves.
FAQ
1. What does hypothyroid anxiety feel like?
Hypothyroid anxiety is a feeling of anxiety or nervousness that can be caused by an imbalance in the thyroid hormone. The thyroid is a gland in the neck that produces hormones that regulate metabolism, so an imbalance can lead to a variety of symptoms including weight gain, fatigue, and anxiety. Anxiety caused by hypothyroidism can feel like a racing heart, sweating, trembling, and difficulty concentrating. It can also cause physical symptoms such as muscle tension and headaches. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor to get your thyroid checked. In the meantime, there are some things you can do to help reduce anxiety. Exercise, meditation, and deep breathing can all help to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Getting enough sleep and eating a balanced diet are also important for managing anxiety. If you’re struggling with hypothyroid anxiety, know that you’re not alone and there are treatment options available.
2. Can endocrine problems cause anxiety?
Endocrine problems can, in fact, cause anxiety. When the endocrine system is not functioning properly, it can create a domino effect that leads to imbalances throughout the body, including the brain. For example, an imbalance of cortisol (the stress hormone) can lead to feelings of anxiety and unease. This is because cortisol plays an important role in regulating the body’s response to stress. When levels are too high, it can trigger the fight-or-flight response, even when there is no actual threat. In addition, endocrine problems can also cause problems with blood sugar regulation, which can lead to “crashes” that leave you feeling tired and anxious. If you suspect that you may have an endocrine problem, it’s important to see a doctor so that they can perform some tests and determine the best course of treatment.
3. How does low thyroid make you feel?
When the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone, it’s called hypothyroidism. The most common symptom of hypothyroidism is fatigue. You may feel like you can’t get going no matter how much sleep you get. Other common symptoms include weight gain, feeling cold all the time, dry skin, and constipation. Hypothyroidism can also cause depression and anxiety. If you have any of these symptoms, it’s important to see your doctor to get a blood test to check your thyroid hormone levels. Hypothyroidism is easy to reverse with Ayurvedic treatment. Once you start taking Ayurvedic herbal medicines and support your thyroid function with diet & lifestyle changes, you should start to feel better within a few weeks.
4. What are Symptoms of Thyroid Anxiety & Panic Attacks?
Symptoms of thyroid anxiety & panic attacks can include feeling nervous, anxious, or on edge most of the time; having a sense of impending danger, doom, or death; having a racing heartbeat; sweating; trembling or shaking; feeling short of breath; feeling like you’re choking; chest pain; and feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or faint. Many people with thyroid anxiety also have physical symptoms such as fatigue, muscle aches and pains, headache, irritability, difficulty concentrating, and difficulty sleeping. These symptoms can be debilitating and severely affect your quality of life. If you think you may have thyroid anxiety & panic attacks, it’s important to see your doctor for an evaluation. Treatment for thyroid anxiety & panic attacks may include medication, therapy, and lifestyle changes. With treatment, you can learn to manage your symptoms and live a full and fulfilling life.
5. Does Hashimoto’s cause anxiety?
Hashimoto’s disease is an autoimmune condition that affects the thyroid. The thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland in the front of the neck that produces hormones that regulate metabolism, heart rate, and mood. Hashimoto’s disease occurs when the body’s immune system attacks the thyroid, causing it to become inflamed and damaged. This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain, and anxiety. While there is no cure for Hashimoto’s disease, many people are able to manage their symptoms with medication and lifestyle changes. If you think you may have Hashimoto’s disease, it is important to talk to your doctor so that you can receive the proper treatment.
6. What does thyroid depression feel like?
When the thyroid is underactive, it can lead to a condition called hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism can cause a number of symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain, constipation, dry skin, and feeling cold all the time. Depression is another common symptom of hypothyroidism, and it can range from mild to severe. People with hypothyroidism may feel sad or hopeless, and they may have trouble concentrating or making decisions. Some people with hypothyroidism may also experience anxiety, irritability, or mood swings. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor so that your thyroid function can be checked. Treating hypothyroidism can help to improve your mood and alleviate other symptoms.
7. How can I overcome my thyroid depression?
There are a number of things you can do to overcome thyroid depression. First, it’s important to understand that the thyroid is a very delicate gland and it can be easily damaged by stress. Therefore, it’s important to find ways to reduce stress in your life. This may include Meditation, Yoga, Tai Chi or other relaxation techniques. Secondly, you need to make sure that you are getting enough iodine in your diet. Iodine is essential for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland and can be found in foods such as seafood, seaweed, eggs and dairy products. Finally, you should try to avoid exposure to environmental toxins as they can also damage the thyroid gland. by following these simple steps, you can help to protect your thyroid gland and overcome thyroid depression.
8. What are the symptoms of thyroid depression?
The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland located in the front of the neck. This gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism, heart rate, and body temperature. When the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones, it’s called hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid. Thyroid depression is a common condition that can cause a variety of symptoms. fatigue and weight gain are two of the most common symptoms of hypothyroidism. People with this condition may also experiencedry skin, hair loss, constipation, and depression. If you think you might have thyroid depression, it’s important to see your doctor for a diagnosis. Thyroid tests can help to determine whether or not you have an underactive thyroid gland. Ayurvedic treatment for hypothyroidism typically involves taking herbal medicines, dietary supplements and lifestyle changes to support thyroid levels in the body naturally. With treatment, most people with hypothyroidism are able to manage their symptoms and lead healthy lives.
Signs and symptoms of thyroid depression include fatigue, depressed mood, difficulty concentrating, and slowed thinking. Other signs and symptoms may include feeling cold all the time, constipation, dry skin, and weight gain. Thyroid depression is thought to be caused by an imbalance of the hormones produced by the thyroid gland. This can be due to a number of factors, including stress, certain medications, or an underlying medical condition. Treatment for thyroid depression often includes lifestyle changes, such as reducing stress and getting regular exercise. In some cases, medication may also be necessary to correct the hormone imbalance.
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