Your thyroid affects your mental, emotional well-being

As South Africans observe Mental Health Awareness Month, examining the intricate connection between thyroid function and mental health is crucial.

Thyroid disease has the potential to profoundly impact our mental well-being, affecting mood, energy and overall quality of life.

Thyroid disorders are more common in women than in men due to hormonal changes during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy and menopause.

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Genetics also play a role in the prevalence of thyroid conditions in women. During pregnancy, hormones help promote the development and growth of the foetus, while thyroid hormones play a vital role in foetal development.

Work-induced chronic stress, toxic relationships and trauma are some factors that can disrupt the hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid axis (a self-regulating system that controls metabolism), leading to changes in thyroid hormone production.

Following this, symptoms such as anxiety, depression, brain fog, confusion and others may appear.

Chronic stress during pregnancy can also increase the risk of high blood pressure, making stress management an important concern.

Setting boundaries is essential for maintaining mental health. Learning to say ‘no’ to others is learning to say ‘yes’ to your well-being.

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The effects of ongoing stress on one’s health are staggering, disrupting menstrual cycles, causing hair loss and skin and bowel problems.

For people with thyroid issues, constant stress can be particularly harmful. Failing to acknowledge and manage it can lead to serious long-term health consequences.

Menopause and thyroid health
Menopause is another major hormonal shift that can affect thyroid function. When estrogen levels decrease, women can experience hot flashes, mood swings or metabolic changes. For those with thyroid conditions, menopause can be especially challenging, and ongoing stress can worsen symptoms.

Managing mental health

Finding new activities can be fulfilling and help you discover what you love and are skilled at. Whatever you choose to do – writing, journaling or starting a food garden – can be especially beneficial for those with thyroid conditions. Growing healthy, homegrown food can help reduce stress, improve nutrition and support well-being.

By taking care of your body and mind, you can find joy and fulfilment in daily life. Exploring creative activities can help you do that. It’s about discovering what works for you and what gives your life meaning.

It is your life, so live it to the best of your ability. Look after your body, respect your boundaries and make every moment count. You have only one heart, one liver, one body and one brain. Take care of them because they are taking care of you.

My experience with thyroid health

My journey with thyroid health has been a wild ride. I have struggled with anxiety and claustrophobia. During panic attacks, I experienced intense physical symptoms, including a racing heart, sweating and dizziness.

It felt like I was intoxicated. I was unable to breathe in crowded areas and experienced much uncertainty. I felt lost, but discovering what was wrong with me was a turning point. I learnt how to manage my condition, and I believe that is one of the reasons I gained weight so quickly.

When you prioritise your mental well-being, you are saving your heart and brain from worry. Your brain works with other organs, so if you do not put your mental health first, a lot can go wrong. It can affect your heart, hormones and overall well-being.

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If you are struggling with mental health issues, know that you are not alone. There is hope for healing and managing your mental health.

A note for men
Mental wellness affects everyone, regardless of gender. Men, it is okay not to be okay. It is okay to cry and acknowledge your emotions.

Seeking help or crying is not a sign of weakness; it is a sign of strength. Standing up and saying, “I am struggling” or “I am not okay”, takes courage, and does not make you less of a man.

Reach out to psychologists or support groups, and always remember that some health issues can be reversed or managed.