If you’re struggling with incontinence, you know the impact the condition can have on other aspects of your life. Many women and men who deal with incontinence issues also report feeling symptoms of clinical depression – so many, in fact, that several studies have been conducted globally to assess the link between depression and incontinence and to evaluate the effect incontinence has on quality of life measures. All these studies have come to one conclusion: people who deal with incontinence are much more likely to experience symptoms of depression also. For instance:
· A Canadian study found that as many as 30 percent of those who experienced symptoms of incontinence also reported symptoms of depression while only 9.2 percent of those who were not incontinent reported they were depressed.
· A study from the U.S. found that women who had both conditions consistently reported more severe symptoms of incontinence as well as a more significant impact on their quality of life.
· And a third study of nearly 2,000 Dutch women found quality of life and vitality were substantially lower for those with incontinence compared to those without the condition.
Researchers believe the increase in depression among those with incontinence is due to two primary factors: First, the condition itself can contribute to depression at least partly due to the embarrassment people feel due to urine leakage. And second, people who suffer from incontinence may be less likely to take part in activities they enjoy including socializing with friends, making them feel sad and more isolated.
The good news is that today there are more ways than ever to help both women and men treat and manage their urinary incontinence. If you suffer from incontinence, be aware of feelings of depression you may be experiencing and be sure to discuss them with your doctor.
We can help. Call The Incontinence Institute today at (800) 774-1953!