Depression and Hypothyroidism

Believe, when you are most unhappy, that there is something for you to do in the world. ~Helen Keller

     I have done a lot of reading about depression and hypothyroidism.  Studies have shown that 15 percent of people with depression have undiagnosed hypothyroidism.

     The Thyroid Society estimates that 10 to 15 percent of of patients with a diagnosis of depression may have an underlying thyroid hormone deficiency.  In a survey of thyroid patients, 63 percent described depression as continuing problem, despite being treated by their physicians for the thyroid condition.


    According to the Thyroid Society for Education and Research, most patients with hypothyroidism have some degree of associated depression, ranging from mild to severe.  The estimate is that 40 percent of clinically hypothyroid patients have significant depression.


     Many doctors don't tell you can have continued various mental side effects from hypothyroidism like depression.  I myself wasn't told that this could be an issue by either my physician or my endocrinologist.  This as i mentioned earlier was an issue.  So, if you feel like you are losing your mind, get help don't wait.  No one knows you better then you do.  I became very negative, stressed-out, and worried a lot.  I had this at one other times in my life and i knew i needed counseling and antidepressants.  This happened right after i had my youngest son and i was put on Synthyroid and took Wellbutrin. This was when i was first diagnosed with hypothyroidism.  I waited longer then i should have cause i thought the Synthyroid would take care of it.  Going to counseling has helped me relax more and see the positive.  I also had my doctor prescribe me Wellbutrin.  It has also made me see the negative and toxic things that i had in my life.  I knew these things were toxic and need to go.  I just need to get better to make these things happen.  I got rid of a lot of toxic and my health has gotten better.  I have lost 40 more pounds after the 25 i had lost in the last 2 years.  I am at a good weight and i have so much more energy.  I see the old me coming back and i have even added some even better qualities.  I love so many things about me and my life.


     I have some tough things ahead of me and i know this.  I have known for awhile that my job is going to end in the next year or two.  Who knows for me it may be even sooner.  I have many options that i am exploring.  Do i pick up my kids and move to another state to follow my dream of culinary school.  Do i stay here and consider looking into buying a restaurant.  These are some things i have to consider.  I know whatever i decide i can handle it.  I am and always have been a strong women.  So, here's to making a 5 year plan or at the very least a 3 year plan.  


     My life is getting better.  I have some people that have been there for me during this and have been great support.  They didn't judge me and they gave me encouragement.  They let me know that i wasn't losing my mind and i was a good person, i was just someone that was going through a tough time.  They stuck by me and i will never forget them for it.  You know who your and i love you all for it.