The Invisible Weight: Mental Health and Chronic Illness

Ranging from National Suicide Prevention Month in September, to National Stress Month in April, to BIPOC Mental Health Month in July, mental health is a recurring topic throughout the year. Similar to myself, mental health is a year round battle, with these months holding special places in my psyche. Awareness is key, especially as someone with an autoimmune disease. As someone with an autoimmune disease and actively in therapy, mental health is an ongoing journey as I move away from my youth. Focusing on connecting with old friends, picking up hobbies, and finding satisfaction in my work has been hard. Plus, having Crohn’s disease, I am at an increased risk for exhibiting suicidal tendencies—like depression and anxiety.

Let’s delve into some research, along with some introductory tips from my own experiences, to help support everyone’s mental health. 

Individuals living with an autoimmune condition such as Crohn’s disease or rheumatoid arthritis can be more susceptible to mental health issues. Globally, at least 1 in 10 people have a mental health condition, with anxiety and depression being the most common. For people with autoimmune conditions, several studies have shown that symptoms of anxiety and depression are over 50% higher, especially in young adults. While the reasons are diverse, the most common include autoimmune conditions masking mental health symptoms and a disconnect between a patient and their doctor. Specifically, increased inflammation in the body can disrupt delicate mood-regulating reactions in the brain and nervous system. 

In one study focusing on rheumatic conditions and mental health, many patients attributed their current mental state to their chronic condition—many did not consider that both a chronic disease and mental health could be linked. Simultaneously, for patients with mental health symptoms, exploring options with a doctor can be daunting, and at times, downright frustrating. Several patients across studies noted how their doctor may be over-reliant on a rubric or chart when diagnosing a mental health condition; an over-reliance on a rubric can invalidate a person’s lived experiences. Coupled with existing systemic barriers to healthcare, such as high healthcare costs or location, people with autoimmune conditions are significantly affected by mental health issues. 

For myself, my mental health journey has been a constantly evolving landscape. For many years, I tended to catastrophize situations and social interactions—sometimes to the point of hyperventilation and paralysis. During my sophomore year of undergrad, I faced several experiences that pushed me emotionally and mentally. A tough breakup, coupled with the death of a loved one and dissatisfaction with my professional life, culminated in a perfect storm of isolation. Outside of academics, work, or social obligations, I realized I had no personal coping mechanisms to process my feelings. I would spend evenings either journaling or lamenting internally, wondering how to escape the catastrophizing spiral—especially around my professional life.  

Simultaneously, I would (and still do) suffer panic attacks when a situation seems dire and uncontrollable. Later, while studying abroad in Australia, I finally took action to address my emotions and homesickness. By living 12000+ miles from home, coupled with not knowing anyone in my cohort, I was both geographically and socially isolated—initially anyway. I realized I needed to focus on the root of my anxiety, not just cover it with social distractions. During that time and into my senior year, I attended more than a dozen counseling sessions at my university. A key lesson I learned is that counseling can provide short-term support, but therapy is where long-term progress happens.  

Since graduating, and with my parents’ support, I found a therapist who works with young adults. We reviewed different providers through my primary doctor’s clinic, as well as other providers recommended by our insurance, and reached a mutual decision on a provider. Together, we are addressing my anxiety, tendency to catastrophize, and other personal challenges. Therapy has been one of the most effective strategies I can recommend—it has helped me in the moment while also fostering long-term healing. It can be difficult, even draining at times, but the growth that follows is invaluable. Therapy is not going to solve problems overnight, but it will provide tools and insights into helping your mental state. 

Below, I’ve included a few parting tips from my own journey, along with mental health resources you may find helpful. 

• If you’re a student, reach out to your guidance counselor or your university’s health office—counseling can be truly helpful.
• It’s okay to feel your emotions, acknowledge them, and take time to process bigger moments—whether good or bad. The key is what you do afterward.
• It is also okay to ask for help—especially if you feel trapped or siloed. For myself, I struggled with reaching out until my emotions exploded like soda pop.
• Therapy isn’t just for people with serious concerns. Think of it like visiting your doctor for regular check-ups—mental health directly affects physical health.
• When looking for a therapist, ask your primary doctor about their connections—your insurance may cover more than you expect. Your insurance provider may also have a tool that can help find covered therapy providers as well!
• For me, journaling and escapism (like geeking out over Marvel or playing trombone) have been excellent outlets to manage emotions. Try picking up a new hobby or returning to a past passion.