The complicated link between mental health and eyesight

Mental health and eyesight are two crucial aspects of our overall well-being that are often overlooked when discussing health. However, these two seemingly distinct areas of health are more interconnected than we might realize. Research has shown that there is a significant relationship between mental health and eyesight, with each influencing the other in intricate ways. Stress can impact both, leading to conditions like glaucoma and visual disturbances. Anxiety can distort visual perception, and depression affects visual concentration. Prioritizing these aspects collectively yields comprehensive well-being. (Demmin & Silverstein , 2020)
In this article, we will explore the connection between these two aspects and discuss how prioritizing both can lead to improved overall health and quality of life.

The mind-eye connection

Stress and vision:
The impact of stress on mental health is well-documented, but it can also affect our eyesight. Chronic stress can lead to physical changes in the eyes, such as increased pressure that contributes to conditions like glaucoma. Moreover, stress can cause visual disturbances, making it difficult to focus and increasing the risk of eyestrain.
Anxiety and visual perception:
Anxiety can distort our perception of the world around us. It can heighten the sensitivity of our senses, including our vision. This hypersensitivity might lead to overanalysing visual stimuli or even experiencing visual hallucinations in severe cases of anxiety disorders.
Depression and eye function:Depression often comes with a lack of motivation and energy, which can extend to visual tasks. People experiencing depression might find it challenging to engage in activities that require visual concentration, like reading or watching TV. Moreover, depression can affect the brain’s processing of visual information, leading to a less vibrant perception of the world. (Sabel , et al., 2018), (Garcia, et al., 2017)

The eye-mind connection

Visual impairment and mental health:
Individuals with visual impairments are at a higher risk of experiencing mental health challenges. The loss of a significant sensory input can lead to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and even depression. However, proper support, adaptive strategies, and accessibility measures can significantly mitigate these challenges.
Positive effects of visual stimulation:
Engaging with visually appealing environments, such as spending time in nature or viewing art, has been linked to improved mental well-being. Visual stimulation can activate regions of the brain associated with pleasure and reward, offering a natural way to boost mood and reduce stress.
Blue light and sleep patterns:
Our modern reliance on screens exposes us to blue light, which can disrupt our circadian rhythm and sleep patterns. Poor sleep can have detrimental effects on mental health, exacerbating
conditions like anxiety and depression. Employing strategies like reducing screen time before bed or using blue light filters can help preserve both eye health and mental well-being. (Gascoyne, et al., 2022), (Demmin & Silverstein , 2020), (Welp , et al., 2016)

Boosting mental health for better eyesight

Practice stress management:
Chronic stress affects mental health and eyesight. Incorporate stress-reduction techniques like mindfulness, meditation, and deep breathing. Lower stress levels can alleviate pressure on the eyes and promote clearer vision.
Prioritize regular exercise:
Physical activity releases endorphins that elevate mood and support mental health. It also enhances blood circulation, benefiting eye health by delivering essential nutrients and oxygen to the eyes.
Nutrition for mind and eyes:
Consume a balanced diet rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins like A, C, and E. These nutrients support cognitive function, mood regulation, and eye health.
Quality sleep matters:
Adequate sleep is vital for mental and eye health. Create a sleep-conducive environment, limit screen time before bed, and maintain a consistent sleep schedule.
Engage socially:
Strong social connections positively impact mental health. Engaging with friends and family reduces feelings of isolation, benefiting eyesight indirectly through stress reduction.
Limit screen time and blue light exposure:
Excessive screen time and blue light exposure can strain eyes and disrupt sleep patterns. Use blue light filters and follow the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds) to protect your eyesight.
Practice vision exercises:
Regularly perform eye exercises to strengthen eye muscles, improve focus, and reduce eyestrain. This can enhance both your mental clarity and eyesight.
Seek professional help:
If you experience persistent mental health issues or notice significant changes in your vision, consult eyecare professionals. Regular eye exams and mental health check-ins are crucial for early detection and intervention.(Worthen & Cash , 2023), (Robinson, et al., 2023), (Aylett, et al., 2018)

Recognizing the intricate link between mental health and eyesight is essential for comprehensive healthcare. Prioritizing strategies to maintain good eye health, manage stress, and address mental health challenges can lead to a positive feedback loop where improved mental well-being supports healthier eyes, and healthier eyes contribute to better mental health. Incorporating regular eye exams, practicing stress-reduction techniques, and seeking appropriate mental health support when needed are steps towards fostering a harmonious relationship between these two vital aspects of our lives. Your journey towards a healthier, happier you begin with these mindful steps.

Refer to the below articles and books for more information:

Aylett, E., Small, N. & Bower, P., 2018. Exercise in the treatment of clinical anxiety in general practice – a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Health Services Research, 18(1), p. 559.
Demmin , D. L. & Silverstein , S., 2020. Visual Impairment and Mental Health: Unmet Needs and Treatment Options. Clinical ophthalmology (Auckland, N.Z.), Volume 14, pp. 4229-4251.
Garcia, G. A. et al., 2017. Profound vision loss impairs psychological well-being in young and middle-aged individuals. Clinical ophthalmology (Auckland, N.Z.), Volume 11, pp. 417-427.
Gascoyne, B. et al., 2022. Vision impairment and self-reported anxiety and depression in older adults in Nigeria: evidence from a cross-sectional survey in Kogi State. International Health, 14(1), pp. I19-I16.
Robinson, L., Segal, J. & Smith, M., 2023. The Mental Health Benefits of Exercise. [Online] Available at: https://www.helpguide.org/articles/healthy-living/the-mental-health-benefits-of-exercise.html
Sabel , B. A. et al., 2018. Mental stress as consequence and cause of vision loss: the dawn of psychosomatic ophthalmology for preventive and personalized medicine. The EPMA journal, 9(2), pp. 133-160.
Welp , A., Woodbury , R. B. & McCoy , M. A., 2016. Making Eye Health a Population Health Imperative: Vision for Tomorrow: Understanding the Epidemiology of Vision Loss and Impairment in the United States. 2 ed. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US).
Worthen , M. & Cash , E., 2023. Stress Management. s.l.:StatPearls Publishing.