Thyroid Function and Mental Health are connected.

BRAIN HYPOTHYROIDISM + HYPERTHYROIDISM

by Kasey Meyer | Director of Mental Health | MSW, LICSW

Check out this fantastic article on how your Thyroid Function and Mental Health are connected from Rupa Health: Thyroid Function and Mental Health: A Root Cause Medicine Exploration

The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland at the base of the neck and has an important role in our daily functioning. The thyroid is an important endocrine gland that supports the make and release of certain hormones. Our thyroid relies heavily on our brain, to indicate when to make, how much to make, and when to release these hormones. When this is over or under active it will affect how you feel, and ultimately your mental wellness.  

This article references depression as “brain hypothyroidism”, meaning if your thyroid is under functioning you will often have symptoms that also align with depressive symptoms. This can also be the case with hyperthyroidism, overactive thyroid can mirror symptoms of Anxiety. When your thyroid is irregular you can experience mood swings. This is why it is important to understand your thyroid function when looking to support your mental health.   

“An integrative medical approach can explore the connection of both your thyroid function and your mental health.”

“Studies have shown that up to 60% of patients with hyperthyroidism show signs of a psychiatric disorder.”

Chronic stress can be a key factor that can impact your thyroid functioning. Stress can be linked to autoimmune disease; it may also increase the risk of Hashimoto's or Graves’ disease. When the thyroid produces high levels of cortisol it increases our health risks, along with an increase in mental health concerns. Learning to manage your stress along with understanding your thyroid function is critical to your overall health and mental well-being.  

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