Can Crohn’s Disease Cause Depression?
Key takeaways:
People living with Crohn’s disease are more likely to experience symptoms of depression. But Crohn’s disease doesn’t directly cause depression.
Inflammation, economic stressors, and medical uncertainty can all increase the risk of developing depression.
There are unique support groups and mental health professionals for people living with Crohn’s disease. Focusing on your mental health as well as your physical health can improve your quality of life and lower your risk of depression.
Crohn’s disease is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation along the entire gastrointestinal tract as well as other parts of the body.
New and emerging treatments are changing the way people manage their Crohn’s disease. These Crohn’s disease treatments help with the physical effects of the condition. But many people with Crohn’s disease are more likely to be diagnosed with mental health concerns, like depression.
If you have Crohn’s disease, you know it can be difficult to juggle your medical needs, especially during flares. But it’s important to take care of your mental health, too. Here’s what to know about the link between Crohn’s disease and depression, and where to get care.
What is the relationship between Crohn’s disease and depression?
Chronic conditions, like Crohn’s disease, don’t only affect your physical health. They also have a significant effect on your overall mental health.
Studies show that people with Crohn’s disease are more likely to experience symptoms of depression than people without Crohn’s disease. In one study of 25,000 people living with Crohn’s disease, 1 in 4 people reported experiencing symptoms of depression. Among the general population in the United States, about 1 in 20 people report symptoms of depression. This means people with Crohn’s disease are at higher risk of developing depression.
But it doesn’t mean that Crohn’s disease causes depression. The link between Crohn’s disease and depression is much more complicated. It’s not just the condition itself but also the stressors and experiences that come with Crohn’s that increase a person’s risk of developing depression. Let’s take a closer look.
Why is depression common in people with Crohn’s disease?
Here are a few of the things that may impact a person’s risk of developing depression when they’re living with Crohn’s disease.
Major lifestyle changes
Crohn’s disease considerably affects your way of life. When you’re living with Crohn’s disease you have to make changes to your everyday activities and your daily routine. Things you may not have thought much about — like exactly what you're eating — now become major focuses of your energy. You might not be able to work, travel, or engage in social activities the way you used to. And your time may be taken up with things like doctor’s appointments and procedures, leaving you less time for things you enjoy like hobbies and spending time with friends.
Navigating these changes can often be overwhelming and it can be hard to find the right resources to help you through these changes. Even people who have access to resources like disability insurance or paid leaves are often left to figure out these resources on their own.
Research suggests that these life shifts can lead to depression if people don’t receive the right support.
Uncertainty
Living with Crohn’s disease means facing periods of uncertainty. There’s always uncertainty about how well treatment will work for you, especially when you’re first starting a new plan. A medication that may work wonders for one person might not work as well for you or might bring on side effects. Many people are able to achieve long-term remission. But there’s always a risk of developing a flare, too. These lingering uncertainties can take a toll on your mental health.
Economic stress
Living with Crohn’s disease is expensive, even if you have insurance. The cost of medications, imaging studies, doctor’s visits and procedures can add up quickly. Your income may also be affected if you aren’t able to work. In one study, people reported spending between $7,800 and $24,000 each year in medical costs related to their Crohn’s disease.
Studies show people living with chronic conditions often experience financial hardship and that these hardships can affect their mental health.
Mental health support and resources for people living with Crohn’s disease
Not everyone with Crohn’s disease will develop depression. But if you’re living with Crohn’s disease, it’s a good idea to link with resources that can help you support your mental health. The right support can give you the tools to:
Navigate challenges related to Crohn’s flares
Manage medications and treatment plans
Assess and update your life goals
Understand and manage the effects of your illness
Get you back to the things you care about
Research has shown that people living with both Crohn’s disease and depression have increased inflammation, which can raise the likelihood of developing other health problems. And there’s some evidence that people living with Crohn’s disease and depression have more frequent flares. So taking the time to focus on your mental health may improve your Crohn’s disease, too.
Your medical team is a great source of information for local and national resources. If you’re not sure where to start, here’s a list of resources to get you started:
Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation: This organization provides up-to-date information for anyone with Crohn’s. The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation also has numerous support groups, networks, and resources.
American Gastroenterological Association: Visit the American Gastroenterological Association’s site to learn more from experts on how to navigate the day-to-day concerns of anyone with Crohn’s or other inflammatory bowel disease.
Pediatric IBD Foundation: Children with Crohn’s disease need support to address their unique needs. The Pediatric IBD Foundation provides information and support resources for children and teens with inflammatory bowel disease and their parents.
The bottom line
People living with Crohn’s disease are more likely to develop depression. Crohn’s disease doesn’t directly cause depression. But people with Crohn’s disease face factors like uncertainty, economic stressors, and major lifestyle changes. These things are linked to a higher risk of developing depression. There are many resources available for people with Crohn’s disease. Having support and resources can make a big difference in the mental health of people living with Crohn’s disease.
Why trust our experts?
References
Bisgaard, T. H., et al. (2022). Depression and anxiety in inflammatory bowel disease: Epidemiology, mechanisms and treatment. Nature Reviews Gastroenterology and Hepatology.
Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation. (n.d.). Depression and anxiety.
Crohn’s and Colitis UK. (2020). Mental health and wellbeing.
Facanali, C. B. G., et al. (2023). The relationship of major depressive disorder with Crohn's disease activity. Clinics.
Kahn-Boesel, O., et al. (2023). A narrative review of financial burden, distress, and toxicity of inflammatory bowel diseases in the United States. American Journal of Gastroenterology.
Keefer, L., et al. (2017). Considering the bidirectional pathways between depression and IBD: Recommendations for comprehensive IBD care. Gastroenterology and Hepatology.
National Institute of Mental health. (2023). Major depression.
Nguyen, N. H., et al. (2021). National estimates of financial hardship from medical bills and cost-related medication nonadherence in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases in the United States. Inflammatory Bowel Diseases.
