Fact 5: The Impact of Akathisia on Mental Health
Exploring the psychological impact of akathisia unveils a hidden layer of this condition. Akathisia doesn’t merely manifest as physical discomfort and restlessness—it also significantly impacts mental health. Living with constant discomfort can elevate stress levels, with anxiety and depression frequently accompanying severe cases of akathisia.
Untangling the manifestations of akathisia from symptoms of existing mental health disorders is often a challenging task. The overlap between these conditions can be significant, particularly as antipsychotic medications used to treat mental health disorders are often the culprits behind akathisia. Therefore, any evaluation for mental health disorders should consider the potential presence of akathisia.
A secondary but equally important concern is medication adherence. The distress and discomfort of akathisia might lead individuals to discontinue their medication regimen without professional advice. This discontinuation could lead to a resurgence or worsening of their primary mental health condition, creating a vicious cycle of illness and distress.
Awareness and prompt identification of akathisia are critical in such scenarios. It enables healthcare providers to adjust the treatment plan and introduce interventions to manage akathisia effectively. Providing relief from akathisia can also enhance the individual’s overall mental wellbeing and improve their adherence to the treatment plan for their primary condition.
In conclusion, akathisia isn’t merely a physical condition. It is a complex disorder with physical and psychological components, all of which need addressing for comprehensive management. Understanding the mental health impact of akathisia is therefore not just beneficial—it’s essential. (5)
