Depression and Dizziness: What is the Link?
In this article, I discuss how depression and dizziness can be related.
Depression can Contribute to Dizziness and Imbalance
Patients who are experiencing depression may present with self-neglect and may fail to take medications properly. People with depression also may eat and drink inconsistently and reduce their activity levels.
Many of these specific problems with self-care that arise from depression can contribute to dizziness and imbalance.
Depression is common among older adults, ranging from mild to major depression. Talk to your doctor if you are feeling depressed.
If you or someone you care for is experiencing depression, be sure that all medications are taken as prescribed. Also, seek appropriate medical care for symptoms of depression.
In half of all clinical trials for older adults with depression, anti-depressant medications were found to be no better than placebo. This suggests that strategies besides meds to relieve depression may be needed for older adults who are suffering.
You can find local support groups to talk about what you are going through. It is important to overcome social isolation by calling a friend or attending a group activity.
Exercise at least twice a week to improve serotonin levels. You can also participate in laughter as an exercise for mood elevation.
Patients with depression are less likely to adhere to a medical treatment plan. This leads to worse outcomes with medical care and physical therapy.
For my patients who are suffering from vertigo and dizziness, I recommend that a dedicated family member or caregiver is involved with their care. This strategy will ensure compliance with the home exercise program and attendance at all scheduled appointments.
Depression should not be overlooked or ignored, since it can contribute to dizziness, imbalance, and a reduced quality of life in general.
Dizziness and Imbalance can Contribute to Depression
Depression may also result from chronic complaints of dizziness, vertigo, or imbalance, especially in patients without a proper vestibular assessment due to prolonged general discomfort and reduced activity levels.
If untreated, depression in patients with dizziness, vertigo, and persistent imbalance may lead to suicidal ideation.
If you are caring for someone with chronic complaints of depression, remain alert for signs and symptoms of depression and suicidal ideation. Patients expressing suicidal ideation require emergency medical intervention.
You can call 911 or go to the nearest hospital emergency room for help with suicidal ideation. You can also call your local suicide prevention hotline, if you need help or guidance regarding severe depression or suicidal thoughts.
In order to reduce the likelihood of depression in patients with chronic dizziness, I recommend consulting a Vestibular physical therapist or doctor.
This article may help you find a vestibular provider in your area.
Disclaimer
This blog is provided for informational and educational purposes only. The content and any comments by Dr. Kim Bell, DPT are not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The details of any case mentioned in this post represent a typical patient that Dr. Bell might see and do not describe the circumstances of a specific individual.
Thank you for this amazing article
A half glass of water slashing around inside your head for 14 years. Depression is the norm and wanting to quit life but you can’t because of a deep spiritual faith. Now you find out your heart is slowing down. And all we can do is talk about it and nothing can humanly be done to fix it. Many have no idea how miserable that is.
I had a case of vertigo in mid November 2023
It seems to be gone but now I deal with not feeling like myself, and have balance problems.
I have had anxiety issues most of my adult life
I don’t think I have ever had the depression I feel until now.
Actually today was the best I have felt for some time.
My doctor said I had BPPV and will go back the end of this month for a recheck.
I wasn’t feeling depression last visit.
Feel empty and not enjoying friends or activities I enjoyed just a couple months ago.
Guess I will just give it some time an talk with my doctor?
I am able to take a 5mg Valium and it seems to help when I go for a 2 mile walk? That makes me feel grounded.
It seems to affect me more when I wake in the morning and as the day goes along I seem to feel better.
Hi Mike,
I am sorry to hear this. It is helpful to talk to your doctor about the depression to seek individual medical advice.
Also, this blog may help you find a provider who can resolve the BPPV.
I hope you feel better soon!
I’ve had this wretched condition for over 50 years. I can only cope taking each day at a time. Sometimes it really is unbearable.
I have suffered disorientation for almost 50 years. Daily wooziness and sometimes it becomes intolerable. I know I have depression and accompanying anxiety. I’ve taken medication for those almost 50 years. It’s unpredictable and very unsettling and I’ve lost hope of a resolution.
Been depressed for about 3 years now. I am starting to get dizzy a lot. Wish I could get better
Hi Robert,
I am sorry to hear this! Please talk to your doctor about treatment options.
I hope you feel better soon.