There are different forms of incontinence – stress incontinence, bowel, and urinary – but no matter what type, they can all be isolating and humiliating. Incontinence is a physical condition but it affects emotions and one’s mental state, leading to anxiety and depression.

Incontinence interferes with quality of life and has a negative impact on those who experience it. In fact, a link has been found between incontinence and depression. Younger women who had incontinence were more likely to be the depressed, but all people who had incontinence had a higher risk of depression compared with people who do not have incontinence. Studies from the University of Adelaide in Australia, the University of Virginia, University of Washington, and published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology have found this. Depression from incontinence is another risk and negative effect of incontinence. Urinary incontinence in new moms can also increase a risk for development of postpartum depression.

Oftentimes, incontinence can lead to constant worry, avoiding social situations, and feelings of loneliness or hopelessness. Staying secluded at home to avoid accidents or potentially uncomfortable situations contributes to depression. Some people think that there is no solution to their incontinence, or that it will get better on its own. These misconceptions are all too common – but there is help.