What is the link between PCOS and mental health?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) affects many aspects of health, including mental health. Individuals with PCOS are three times more likely to suffer from anxiety and depression disorders than those without this condition.
Moreover, the anxiety and depression symptoms reported by individuals with PCOS are often more severe.
PCOS can cause mental health problems such as depression, anxiety, and other disorders. It can also increase the risk of eating disorders, bipolar disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. It's important to note that while studies have primarily focused on depression and anxiety.
What is the correlation between polycystic ovary syndrome and psychological health?
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is linked to reproductive and metabolic health, as well as mental health. Several factors contribute to this.
Symptoms:
PCOS symptoms can be a significant source of stress. Individuals may experience frustration and anxiety related to their inability to conceive, their weight, hair loss, or overall health.
Personal values and the individual's support system can influence the perception of symptoms considered challenging to cope with.
Hormonal Differences:
Researchers have studied whether hormones in PCOS cause more anxiety and depression. Some individuals with PCOS have insulin resistance, which increases their blood insulin levels. One study found that greater insulin resistance increased the risk of depression.
Individuals with PCOS may have a higher risk of depression and anxiety due to a hormone called DHEAS.
Brain Chemicals:
Women with PCOS may have lower levels of neurotransmitters. These neurotransmitters send signals in the brain and nervous system. Serotonin, associated with positive feelings, is particularly important in combating anxiety and depression.
Individuals with PCOS and low serotonin and other neurotransmitters may experience more depression and anxiety.
What treatments are available?
If you have PCOS and feel sad, anxious, or have mood swings, it's recommended to seek therapy.
There are many treatments that can help alleviate the effects of depression and anxiety. It's important to seek support and receive appropriate follow-up to find the best solution for each case.
Lifestyle Changes:
Research has studied how nutrition and exercise affect depression and anxiety in individuals with PCOS. A sedentary lifestyle does not seem to help with anxiety. It only works temporarily for depression.
However, adopting an active lifestyle in general can help improve mental health.
Individuals with PCOS who regularly exercise have fewer depressive symptoms. Engaging in 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week reduces the risk of depression.
Treatments and Supplements:
Metformin can help individuals with PCOS better use insulin and reduce depressive symptoms.
Metformin can also help alleviate anxiety symptoms.
Recommended dietary supplements:
- Magnesium Bisglycinate: to reduce anxiety and promote sleep. Here
- Vitamin D: helps with insulin management and better assimilation of magnesium. Here
- Adaptogenic herbs are also an effective way to reduce stress and anxiety. Here
Complementary and Alternative Therapies:
Acupuncture, yoga, and meditation help individuals better cope with depression and anxiety associated with PCOS.
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical practice that involves stimulating specific points in the body with thin needles.
Studies have shown that acupuncture can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression by promoting the release of endorphins and regulating the nervous system. For women with PCOS, acupuncture can help balance hormones, reduce menstrual disorders, and improve fertility, which helps reduce stress related to these issues. Acupressure may also be interesting.
Yoga combines physical postures, breathing exercises, and meditation techniques. It helps reduce stress, improve relaxation, and increase self-awareness. Studies have shown that regular yoga practice reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression by regulating stress hormones, promoting muscle relaxation, and improving sleep quality. For women with PCOS, yoga helps reduce insulin resistance and improve menstrual cycle regularity.
Meditation is also beneficial as it helps cope with emotional challenges related to PCOS.
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