Depression is a very significant public health issue and is currently on the rise. In 2015, depression was the third leading cause of general disability globally. Women are twice as likely to suffer from depression, than men. Most depressive symptoms typically show up when you are in your 20’s. Stressors such as a divorce, the death of a close one, as well as some hormonal imbalances, particularly thyroid disease, can contribute to the onset of depression.
Many people suffering from hypothyroidism, are prone to depressive disorders. While thyroid disease and depression are viewed as two separate conditions, research has shown that in many instances, thyroid imbalance and depression are tightly associated. Abnormal thyroid function can cause a wide range of symptoms, which can improve or resolve with thyroid medications. In many patients with hypothyroidism who struggle with depression, depression resolves with the right thyroid hormone therapy. In other patients, depression persists, despite thyroid hormone therapy. If that’s the case, you may benefit from antidepressants, counseling, or psychotherapy. If suffering from depression or anxiety, it is highly recommended that you have your thyroid tested to see if you have an under active thyroid that could be contributing to your depression.