In what ways are PCOS and mental health related?
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a complex disorder that has a wide range of effects on a person’s physical and mental health.At least one in ten women in India are affected with the latter, it is one of the most prevalent endocrine disorders among women of reproductive age.
Physical health is vital, but so is mental and emotional well-being.Nearly three times as many PCOS patients experience anxiety and depression as the general population. Additionally, PCOS sufferers are far more likely to admit to experiencing significant anxiety and depressive symptoms.
People with PCOS are more likely to be diagnosed with depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and obsessive compulsive disorder. OCD, somatization, sadness, and anxiety symptoms all deteriorate as a result of it.
According to research, having PCOS symptoms such as excessive hair growth, hair loss, acne, weight changes, and fertility issues can have a detrimental impact on mood, self-confidence, and body image.
It has also been demonstrated that a woman’s likelihood of experiencing depression or anxiety increases with the length of time it takes for her to acquire a PCOS diagnosis.
Dealing with PCOS symptoms can be challenging, especially if you don’t know what’s causing them.
Depression and anxiety’s impacts
Your quality of life may be impacted by depression and anxiety in a number of ways:
- Physiologically – by interfering with your sleep and food schedules
- Mentally – by decreasing your motivation and escalating thoughts of worthlessness
- By influencing your relationships socially.
Lifestyle & Mental Health
A healthy lifestyle, which includes eating a nutritious diet, staying as active as you can, and maintaining a healthy weight, has been proved to be one of the most effective ways to cure the symptoms of PCOS.
Knowing how your mood might affect how you manage your lifestyle is therefore one of the secrets to controlling PCOS successfully. It’s crucial to ask for assistance if you think you need it with this.
Exercise and Mental Health
Yoga positions, guided relaxation, breathing techniques, and meditation can all help reduce anxiety symptoms in PCOS patients. People who exercise frequently do so merely for the pleasure it brings them. Exercise can improve your disposition, focus, and alertness. You might even benefit from having a more upbeat attitude on life.
However, there are a variety of ways that exercise can enhance your mental well-being, including:
- Serotonin, stress hormones, and endorphin levels in the brain all vary as a result of exercise.
- Sleeping better after regular exercise can help. Additionally, getting enough sleep aids in mood control.
- Putting on weight could aggravate or induce PCOS. Losing weight can be aided by regular exercise.
