Health and Psychology

Many physical illnesses have psychological symptoms that accompany them.  Depression and anxiety are the most common of the psychological symptoms but psychosis, compulsions, hallucinations or delusions are not uncommon.  It is believed that about 70% of psychological symptoms may relate to undiagnosed or inadequately treated medical conditions.

Many types of medical conditions are known to cause psychological symptoms.  Infection is likely to cause depression.  Cardiac disease may contribute to either depression or anxiety.  Compulsions to eat things that are not food such as clay, dirt or ice may be a symptom of anemia.  Depression and anxiety in the presence of head injury may suggest localization to specific areas of the cortex of the brain.  Breathing difficulties may cause anxiety.  Less common illnesses such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, lupus, or kidney or liver disease may present with psychotic symptoms such as unusual ideas, hallucinations, or changes in thinking.

Prior to treatment for psychological symptoms, an evaluation for underlying medical conditions is important.  It's also important if someone isn't responding to conventional evidence-based treatment for psychological conditions to ensure that medical conditions are ruled out.