Symptom 6. Depression and Mood Swings: The Emotional Toll
The connection between Hashimoto’s disease and mental health is complex yet undeniable. Many women with Hashimoto’s disease report experiencing depression, mood swings, and anxiety, changes that can drastically impact quality of life.
Depression associated with Hashimoto’s disease goes beyond merely feeling down or sad. It manifests as a persistent low mood, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, or a general sense of hopelessness. Additionally, patients might experience inexplicable bouts of tearfulness or find themselves increasingly irritable.
The exact reasons behind these emotional changes are not fully understood, but researchers speculate it could be linked to the overall decrease in energy metabolism. The brain, being a significant energy consumer, might be affected by the reduced energy production, leading to alterations in mood and emotional states. (6)
