Let's talk life

Dear Counsellor,

I have a goiter and am taking medication. I am also on medication for bipolar disorder, which came on before I was diagnosed as having hyperthyroidism. I was not aware that mental health is influenced by the thyroid gland.

- Maxine

Dear Maxine,

Thanks for your letter because this is a very important topic. The levels of thyroxine can increase or decrease. Some patients present to the psychiatrist with depression or hypomania. Hypomania is characterised by increased energy, lots of optimism, little sleep, hypersexuality, and aggression. Depression is characterised by low energy, sad faces and mood, suicidal thoughts, sleep problems and appetite problems.

Depression is seen in hypothyroidism and hypomania is seen in hyperthyroidism. If you are depressed, you need to see your doctor, who will request laboratory investigations.

Thyroid disorders are treatable, and so you need to see your endocrinologist. You might need to take replacement hormone medication to reduce the hormone levels.

Some individuals might find themselves getting anxious without reason. Get a check-up. You might be having an overactive thyroid gland.

Lupus and depressed

Dear Counsellor,

I was diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus and am on medication. I am worried about my health, and I think I might be depressed. What can I do ?

- Kay

Dear Kay,

Lupus is a condition that can cause depression. If you are depressed, you need to see your rheumatologist, who will assess the status of your lupus. It is natural to be concerned about your health.

The steroid that is given to patients with lupus can cause depression. It, therefore, means that you need to be seeing your doctor regularly and discussing the various health issues. In the evaluation of a patient with depression, you need to check whether lupus is present or not.

Email questions and feedback for Dr Yvonnie Bailey-Davidson to yvonniebd@hotmail.com or call 978-8602.