25-05-2025
World Thyroid Day 2025: How your thyroid could be steering your mental state
The thyroid gland, though small in size, plays a monumental role in regulating our body's metabolism, energy levels, and emotional balance. For many patients, unexplained fatigue, mood changes, and memory fog are often brushed off as stress or aging—when in fact, they could signal an underlying thyroid disorder.
The overlooked link between thyroid and mood
Thyroid hormones—primarily T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine)—have a direct influence on brain function. Both hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) can trigger mental health symptoms that closely resemble depression or anxiety.
In hypothyroidism, patients often experience persistent low mood, sluggishness, irritability, poor concentration, and memory lapses.
In hyperthyroidism, individuals may struggle with restlessness, panic attacks, insomnia, and emotional instability.
This overlap often leads to misdiagnosis or delayed treatment, especially when patients present solely with psychiatric symptoms.
Why this connection matters
As a General Medicine practitioner, I frequently encounter patients who have seen multiple specialists for their psychological symptoms before a routine thyroid test reveals the true cause.
by Taboola
by Taboola
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Undo
Timely detection of thyroid dysfunction can dramatically improve not just physical health, but emotional well-being too.
Red flags that shouldn't be ignored
Sudden changes in mood or behavior
Ongoing fatigue despite adequate rest
Difficulty concentrating or memory issues
Unexplained weight changes
Menstrual irregularities or hair thinning
If you're experiencing a combination of these symptoms, it is essential to get your thyroid profile evaluated.
A holistic approach to treatment
Managing thyroid-related mental health symptoms requires more than just hormone replacement or medication regulation. It involves:
Regular monitoring of
thyroid function
Addressing nutritional deficiencies (like iodine, selenium, Vitamin D)
Supporting emotional health through therapy or counseling if needed
Prioritizing sleep, exercise, and stress reduction
Mental health is intricately tied to physical well-being. The thyroid–brain connection is a powerful reminder of how our body systems are interdependent. A comprehensive approach to patient care, especially in women and older adults, should always include thyroid evaluation when unexplained mood or cognitive changes occur.
Early intervention can make a world of difference—and sometimes, the right diagnosis starts with simply asking the right questions.
Dr. Nanda Kumar, Senior Consultant – General Medicine, SRM Global Hospitals, Chennai
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