Chronic illnesses can be overwhelming and often have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life. Although it’s common knowledge that chronic illnesses affect physical health, research has shown that they also have long-term effects on mental health.
One of the most visible effects of chronic illness on mental health is depression. A study by North et al. (2010) found that almost 35% of patients with chronic illnesses suffered from major depressive disorders. The study also revealed that depression was more common in patients with chronic illnesses than in those without the conditions.
Chronic illnesses also have an impact on anxiety disorders. Research indicates that patients with chronic illnesses are more likely to suffer from anxiety disorders than those without such conditions. Chronic illnesses often take a toll on a person’s emotional well-being, leading to anxiety disorders that might require professional therapy or medication.
Furthermore, chronic illnesses have been linked to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Patients with chronic illnesses might experience trauma as a result of the medical procedures, physical pain, and emotional turmoil they face. A systematic review by Li et al. (2019) found that PTSD was highly prevalent in patients with chronic illnesses, ranging from 9.1% to 37.5%.
Beyond mental disorders, chronic illnesses have also been linked to an increased risk of suicidal ideation. According to a study by Gradus et al. (2010), patients with chronic illnesses had an increased risk of suicidal ideation, even after controlling for depressive and anxiety disorders. Chronic illnesses have a profound impact on a person’s mental and emotional well-being, leading to severe mental health challenges such as suicidal ideation.
In conclusion, chronic illnesses have long-term effects on a person’s mental health. Patients with chronic illnesses are more likely to experience depression, anxiety disorders, PTSD, and suicidal ideation than those without such conditions. Healthcare providers must take an integrated approach to treating chronic illnesses, considering the impact of these conditions on patients’ emotional well-being. By doing so, we can ensure that patients with chronic illnesses receive comprehensive care that takes into account their mental and emotional health needs.
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