Mental health and autoimmune disease: uncertainty can lead to depression says study

Mental health in the form of illness-related uncertainty increases depression and anxiety in people with autoimmune rheumatic diseases. The report in the Journal of Rheumatology shows it also increases impact of the rheumatic disease.

Over 130 people with autoimmune diseases completed a survey about their mental health and other aspects of their condition.

Analysis of the responses found “a spectrum of illness-related uncertainty is observed in patients with rheumatic disease and this is associated with depression, anxiety, and sickness impact,” outlines Dr Zachary Wallace.

The scientists discovered moderately strong associations between patient-reported uncertainty and depression, anxiety and sickness impact. Additionally, patients reported interest in receiving more psychological support and receiving resources for daily tasks.

“Patients with rheumatic diseases have a number of unmet needs related to their mental health and well-being,” Dr Wallace points out. “It is important to engage patients on these important topics and identify resources that may be available to help them as they continue on their journey with rheumatic disease.”

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