4 Surprising Conditions Linked to Depression

At this point in psychiatry, we are able to safely call depression a disorder of the brain. This is a long way from our distant ancestors who believed that depression was due to demonic possession. Even the more advanced cultures of ancient Greece and Rome believed that melancholia (depression) was caused by imbalanced body fluids called humours.

Still, we continue to learn about the contributing factors related to depression. With the introduction of the bio-psycho-social model, we began to realize that depression can still remain a disorder of the brain while being multi-determined. In other words, while genetic contribution plays an important role, so can other factors such as loss, neglect, and trauma.

Some disturbances of mood can also be state-dependent. This is where the acronym HALT comes in. I encourage my patients who experience transient low mood to look at their current state. Are they Hungry, Angry, Lonely, or Tired? These temporary states can usually be easily remedied by eating something, taking a nap, calling a friend, or employing other means of self-care.

Somewhere between chronic and temporary states of depression are what I call intangible irritants. These factors of mood disturbance are often minimized, if not ignored altogether, but they can have a significant negative impact on a person’s life. Let’s explore some of these factors as they may be contributing to your own low mood:

• Hearing loss. While many see hearing loss as a “normal” part of getting older, not treating it effectively can impact mental health in a profound way. In fact, studies indicate that individuals with hearing loss are 47 percent more likely to develop depressive symptoms than those unaffected by it. The reasons are both social and biological. Someone with hearing loss is more likely to become socially isolated making them further at risk. In addition, parts of the brain used to process auditory information help to keep the brain sharp. If they are not being used properly, it can negatively impact cognition.
• Allergies. The link between allergies and depression is fairly complex, although many experts believe there is a relationship. One study indicates worsening mood symptoms among college students when there is a high pollen count. Multiple studies also see a relationship between allergic rhinitis (commonly called hay fever) and suicidal ideation and behaviors. One way to look at it is that adding an additional irritant such as seasonal or perennial allergies, on top of existing stressors, is a dangerous combination.
• Poor eyesight. A recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that one in four individuals with vision loss reported anxiety or depression. The reasons are multi-fold, including potential social isolation, increased worry about activities of daily living, and feelings of loss. The impact of vision loss is even greater among younger adults, possibly because it is more unexpected and they have not yet developed effective coping strategies to address it.
• Chronic pain. The link between chronic pain and depression is perhaps less surprising. If someone lives with pain day in and day out, it is understandable that it would impact mood and outlook. Even worse, the relationship is reciprocal, meaning chronic pain causes depression while depression can also cause pain. Studies suggest that between 35 and 45 percent of people with chronic pain experience depression.

The silver lining is that these conditions are often treatable. In most cases, you do not have to live with the above impairments. Modern science has improved treatment of all of the above. In some cases, lifestyle changes can improve functioning. In other situations, supplemental devices such as a hearing aid or medical procedures can help.

Pairing with the appropriate medical professional is crucial so you do not have to go it alone. Fortunately, psychotherapy and medication have both been proven to help with depressive symptoms as well, so no matter the cause, there is help available.

If you or someone you love is contemplating suicide, seek help immediately. For help 24/7, dial 988 for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or reach out to the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741. To find a therapist near you, visit the Psychology Today Therapy Directory.

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