The Link with Other Health Problems

Viruses Hormones Menopause Thyroid Disorders Other conditions Medication which can cause or contribute to Depression The part played by alcohol

Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)
Hypothyroidism (also called myxoedema) is another illness that can cause symptoms of depression.

The thyroid is a gland in the throat which produces hormones that regulate metabolism. If it is underactive, it can make you slow, sluggish and liable to gain weight and sometimes quite depressed.

Taking thyroxine (thyroid hormone) in the right dose - corrects the problem … and the depression. Hormone replacement therapy, though with other hormones, is also the treatment for hypothyroidism or myxoedema.

Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much hormone (thyroxine).

This overactivity will result in symptoms such as anxiety and agitation, palpitations and weight loss. Your doctor may take a blood test to discover whether your symptoms are related to hyperthyroidism or to anxiety.