Vision changes are common throughout life, especially as you age. If you have new or emerging vision issues, you might be afraid that your health is taking a turn for the worst. Not only do you have the physical fallout of vision loss to deal with, but you are likely also suffering from the effects of eyesight on your mental health.
Effects of Eyesight on Your Mental Health
It is important to recognize how your changing vision can affect you in many different ways. There are certain conditions or diseases which may be putting more of a strain on your everyday life than you realize. Schedule an appointment with your Orange County eye surgeon if you have a hard time finding a positive treatment plan for your eyesight changes.
Eyesight and Anxiety
Vision loss can occur as a result of many different diseases or conditions. Those struggling with glaucoma or macular degeneration may be experiencing rapid loss of eyesight, especially as they grow older. These fast and serious changes to the body can result in a lot of stress.
There is a lot of anxiety surrounding the loss of vision, and understandably so. Patients also report seeing spots or small flying objects in their peripheral vision that look like bugs. This can make it look like they are developing paranoid behaviors in response to their decreasing vision.
Vision Loss and Depression
Unfortunately, there is a direct link between anxiety and depression. People who struggle with poor vision are a lot more likely to feel the symptoms of depression. Losing your vision means losing your ability to perform many daily activities that you might take for granted. When it is difficult to see your surroundings, it can have a profound impact on your mental health.
If you are suddenly unable to recognize objects, places, or even people from a distance, check in with a doctor and let them know how you are feeling. Treatment for vision loss should not only come from your ophthalmologist, but a mental health professional as well.
Healthy Effects of Proper Vision Treatment
Struggling with vision problems? Don’t go through it alone. Visit your eye specialist and talk about the comprehensive treatment options that can restore your vision back to a better state. Cataracts, for example, can be removed and your vision corrected with a small procedure. Studies have shown that the 15-minute cataract removal procedure has significantly reduced the symptoms of depression felt by patients who were previously diagnosed.
Staying On Top of Your Vision Problems
The best way to avoid oncoming symptoms of depression and anxiety is to remain aware of the state of your vision. If you suspect that you are dealing with vision problems, you should speak up and get in touch with your doctor right away. You should also stay aware of the symptoms of anxiety and depression, which include:
- Little to no interest in doing your usual activities
- Trouble focusing at work or school
- Feelings of sadness or numbness
- Increased stress
- Poor appetite
It is important that you surround yourself with supportive friends and family during this time. Speaking out about your struggles isn’t easy, but once you get help, you can start on the path to recovery so much faster.
Improve Your Version with a Personalized Treatment Plan Today
It is more possible than ever to restore and improve your vision. At the office of Dr. Ghosheh, we provide the most advanced and innovative iDesign personalized LASIK treatment options on the market. Speak with our experts today and get an official diagnosis to fast-track your treatment plan. Having some clarity about your condition and its cure can give you the fresh breath of relief that you need to start feeling better again. Contact us today to schedule a personal consultation!