Mental Health
A wide range of psychological problems can arise for those with untreated celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity. Initially, there may be a misdiagnosis of psychiatric illness due to some of the neurological and psychiatric symptoms that can manifest in untreated celiac disease. Once diagnosed, there may be difficulty adjusting to a new diagnosis of chronic illness and adherence to a gluten-free diet. In patients with celiac disease, a 10-22% increased risk of neurological disorders is reported.
When a Mental Health Referral is Necessary
Difficulty adjusting to a new diagnosis of chronic illness, adhering to a strict gluten-free diet, and other aspects of disease management can affect a patient’s mental health. Protracted duration of emotional or behavioral symptoms, greater severity of symptoms, and/or significant impairment in functioning are indicators of potential need for mental health treatment. These include:
- Finding little or no pleasure in life
- Feeling worthless or extremely guilty
- Crying a lot for no particular reason
- Withdrawing from other people
- Experiencing severe anxiety, panic, or fear
- Having big mood swings
- Experiencing a change in eating or sleeping patterns
- Having very low energy
- Losing interest in hobbies or pleasurable activities
- Having too much energy, having trouble concentrating or following through on plans
- Feeling easily irritated or angry
- Experiencing racing thoughts or agitation
- Hearing voices or seeing images that other people do not experience
- Believing that others are plotting against you
- Wanting to harm yourself or someone else
When a Medical Evaluation is Necessary
Initially, those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity may be misdiagnosed with a psychiatric illness due to some of the neurological and psychiatric symptoms that can manifest in untreated celiac disease, including:
- Mood changes
- Anxiety
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
- Sleep difficulties
- Decreased appetite