When you are experiencing medical concerns it can be overwhelming. Finding out that you have a chronic medical condition can cause you to experience a rush of powerful emotions – disbelief, anger, grief and anguish. You may find that these feelings dissipate as you begin to accept your illness and the changes that may come along with it. Though, you may find that these feelings of sadness, hopelessness and helplessness linger longer than expected, possibly causing you to wonder whether they may be beginning signs of depression.

Chronic Medical Conditions and Depression

Chronic medical conditions are associated with higher rates of depression. Studies show that approximately one-third of those with a chronic medical condition have depression or another type of mood disorder. Due to this correlation, it may not be unusual for you to experience symptoms of depression after you have been diagnosed. The risk for depression may become magnified if you feel preoccupied by its severity and the kind of lifestyle changes you may need to make to prevent your health from deteriorating. This type of depression can be largely undiagnosed and remain untreated.

According to Western Journal of Medicine (2001), in certain cases, depression is actually biologically linked to some medical conditions. This can be particularly true for chronic medical conditions connected to the central nervous system such as; Parkinson’s disease, endocrine disorders (hypothyroidism), cerebrovascular disease, or multiple sclerosis, all of which are likely to trigger symptoms of depression. The limitations caused may also amplify symptoms of depression.

Being Proactive

Knowing that a chronic medical condition can cause you to be more susceptible to symptoms of depression may be your first line of defense. Due to this predisposition, it can be important that immediate attention is given to such symptoms in order to ensure prompt diagnosis and treatment. Depression can make chronic illness unnecessarily harder. These depressive symptoms, as well as pain or illness, can cause you to withdraw from family and friends, possibly affecting your relationships and social life.

If you have been diagnosed with a chronic medical problem you may want to also be on the lookout for depressive symptoms. Being more susceptible to depression does NOT mean that you will experience this, though being aware of your mental health can make a world of difference. If you are concerned about depression, seeing a trained counselor could help you decide what to do next. 

Living a Full Life with a Chronic Medical Condition

If you are experiencing depressive symptoms related to a recent medical diagnosis, know that you are not alone. This is a common experience for many. Instead of ignoring your symptoms of depression, seek help from Carolina Counseling Services – Fuquay-Varina, NC.  Depression does not have to cause you any further difficulty. Stand against depression and embrace your new lifestyle with the help of a licensed therapist. Call CCS today to get connected.

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