It’s one bad thing after another.
A new large-scale study has found that individuals with autoimmune diseases face a significantly higher risk of developing mood disorders such as depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder. According to the research published in BMJ Mental Health, people diagnosed with conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, inflammatory bowel disease, psoriasis, and Graves’ disease are nearly twice as likely to experience these psychological challenges compared to the general population.
The research, led by Arish Mudra Rakshasa-Loots from the University of Edinburgh, analyzed health data from 1.5 million participants in a comprehensive U.K. health study. Of those, more than 37,000 reported living with an autoimmune condition. The findings showed that approximately 29% of those with autoimmune diseases had been diagnosed with a mood disorder, compared to 18% of those without such illnesses.
The study also highlighted notable gender differences. Women with autoimmune diseases were more likely to experience mood disorders, with 32% reporting symptoms compared to 21% of men. The researchers suggested that biological factors such as hormone levels, chromosomal differences, and immune system activity could play a role in this disparity. In particular, women with depression often exhibit higher levels of inflammatory markers, which may contribute to these outcomes.
Based on the results, the authors recommend incorporating mental health screenings into routine care for individuals with autoimmune conditions, especially for women. Early detection could lead to better support and more effective treatment strategies. The study also calls for further research into how factors like chronic pain, fatigue, and social isolation—common among autoimmune patients—may also influence mental health risks.
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