Can Depression Cause Dizziness?

Introduction: Can Depression Make You Feel Dizzy? A Spiraling Question!

Experiencing dizziness can be alarming, especially when it intertwines with mental health concerns like depression. Many individuals may wonder, can depression make you feel dizzy? This article explores the complex relationship between depression and dizziness, examining how one can influence the other.

Understanding Dizziness and Depression by Definition

Dizziness refers to a range of sensations, including feeling faint, unsteady, or as if the surroundings are spinning (vertigo). It can be triggered by various factors, including inner ear disturbances, medication side effects, or psychological conditions.

Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, and a loss of interest in activities once enjoyed. It affects daily functioning and can lead to physical symptoms, including changes in sleep patterns and energy levels.

Can Dizziness Cause Depression?

The answer is not straightforward. While dizziness itself does not directly cause depression, the experience of chronic dizziness can lead to feelings of anxiety and depression. Many individuals suffering from dizziness report increased psychological distress due to their condition. Conversely, depression can manifest through physical symptoms like dizziness.

Depression is often linked to dizziness, which may present as a vague sense of giddiness or feelings of disconnection. Research indicates that people who experience dizziness or vertigo are at a higher risk of developing mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, and panic disorder. In 2016 research shows around 20% of individuals dealing with dizziness report significant psychological distress.

Present Research Findings on the Connection Between Dizziness and Depression

Studies Suggests: Research indicates that chronic dizziness is often associated with higher levels of anxiety and depression. A study (2016) found that 20% of patients experiencing dizziness reported significant psychological distress.

Psychological Impact: Patients with vestibular disorders frequently develop secondary psychiatric conditions. The stress of managing chronic dizziness can exacerbate feelings of hopelessness and despair associated with depression.

Bidirectional Relationship: The relationship between dizziness and depression is bidirectional; while dizziness can lead to depressive symptoms, existing depression can also heighten the perception of dizziness. Studies (2022) show that individuals with high anxiety and depression scores tend to report more severe dizziness.

Demographic Variations: The prevalence of dizziness among individuals with depression varies across different demographics. For instance, older adults often experience both conditions concurrently due to age-related changes in health.

Need for Comprehensive Assessment: Healthcare providers must evaluate both vestibular symptoms and psychological health when treating patients experiencing dizziness to ensure a holistic approach to care.

Symptoms of Depression to check. This will help you understand when to seek help:

Recognising the symptoms of depression can help determine when to seek help and consider taking personal leave or vacation time.

Emotional Symptoms

• Persistent Sadness: A continuous feeling of sadness or emptiness.
• ⁠Irritability: Increased frustration or anger over minor issues.
• Feelings of Hopelessness: A belief that things will never get better.
• ⁠Guilt or Worthlessness: Excessive feelings of guilt or a sense of being a failure.

Physical Symptoms

• Changes in Appetite: Significant weight loss or gain, or changes in eating habits.
• Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia or sleeping too much.
• Fatigue: A constant feeling of tiredness or lack of energy.
• ⁠Aches and Pains: Unexplained physical symptoms, such as headaches or digestive issues.

Cognitive Symptoms

• ⁠Difficulty Concentrating: Trouble focusing, making decisions, or remembering things.
• Negative Thinking: A tendency to dwell on negative thoughts or events.

Behavioural Symptoms 

• ⁠Withdrawal from Social Activities: Avoiding friends, family, and previously enjoyed activities.
• ⁠Decreased Performance: A decline in work or academic performance.

You may consider programs by Mave Health and their resources on tDCS that provide valuable support and guidance with such matters.

Do Read More About Depression

1. Supporting a Loved One with Depression: Practical Tips
2. Foods for Depression: What to Eat and What to Avoid
3. How Meditation Can Help with Depression?
4. tDCS Device for Depression Treatment

Conclusion

The intricate relationship between depression and dizziness symptoms underscores the importance of recognizing both physical and mental health aspects in treatment plans. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, consulting a healthcare provider for personalised guidance is essential. Understanding that dizziness from depression is a valid concern can empower individuals to seek help. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by these symptoms, reach out to a healthcare professional who can provide support tailored to your needs. 

References

1. Chen, X., Wei, D., Fang, F., Song, H., Yin, L., Kaijser, M., Gurholt, T. P., Andreassen, O. A., Valdimarsdóttir, U., Hu, K., & Duan, M. (2024). Peripheral vertigo and subsequent risk of depression and anxiety disorders: a prospective cohort study using the UK Biobank. BMC Medicine, 22(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12916-023-03179-w
2. De Moraes, S. A., De Souza Soares, W. J., Ferriolli, E., & Perracini, M. R. (2013). Prevalence and correlates of dizziness in community-dwelling older people: a cross sectional population based study. BMC Geriatrics, 13(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1471-2318-13-4
3. Kim, S. K., Kim, Y. B., Park, I., Hong, S. J., Kim, H., & Hong, S. M. (2016). Clinical Analysis of Dizzy Patients with High Levels of Depression and Anxiety. Journal of Audiology & Otology, 20(3), 174–178. https://doi.org/10.7874/jao.2016.20.3.174
4. Koukoulithras, I., Drousia, G., Kolokotsios, S., Plexousakis, M., Stamouli, A., Roussos, C., & Xanthi, E. (2022). A Holistic Approach to a Dizzy Patient: A Practical Update. Cureus. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.27681
5. Lemonaid Health. (2024, June 5). Physical symptoms of depression: 13 signs you may have it. Healthaid. https://healthaid.lemonaidhealth.com/depression/physical-symptoms/
6. Omara, A., Basiouny, E. M., Shabrawy, M. E., & Shafei, R. R. E. (2022). The correlation between anxiety, depression, and vertigo: a cross-sectional study. The Egyptian Journal of Otolaryngology, 38(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s43163-022-00318-7
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