Thyroid dysfunction can have a strong impact on both the body and the brain. Thyroid hormones play a critical role in brain function, and imbalances can lead to significant changes in mood and cognition. This article explores how thyroid dysfunction affects mood and cognition and highlights the importance of maintaining thyroid health for overall mental well-being.
Thyroid Hormones and Brain Function
The thyroid hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) are essential for the development and function of the central nervous system. They influence brain processes including the formation of new neurons, supporting nerve fibres and communication between neurons as well as neurotransmitter regulation.
Mood Disorders and Thyroid Dysfunction
Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can lead to mood disturbances, although the symptoms differ based on the type of thyroid dysfunction.
Hypothyroidism, an underactive thyroid, can lead to depression and mood swings. Up to 60% of people with a hypothyroid diagnosis also struggle with mood issues. This does not take into account people without a diagnosis, who may have sub-clinical thyroid issues and the symptoms that accompany it.
Hyperthyroidism, an overactive thyroid, is more likely to lead to increased levels of anxiety through excessive stimulation of the nervous system by thyroid hormones. This can lead to irritability and mood swings too. In cases of decreased sleep and excessive energy this can have a negative impact mental health too.
Cognitive Impairment and Thyroid Dysfunction
Thyroid dysfunction can also significantly impact cognitive function, affecting concentration, memory, and overall cognitive performance.
People with hypothyroid issues often experience brain fog, memory issues and reduced executive function including difficulties with planning and decision making. Whereas with hyperthyroid, cognitive issues tend to be more difficulty staying focused and a scattered though process. This is often a consequence of the increase in energy and restlessness as a result of increased thyroid hormones.
Thyroid dysfunction can significantly affect mood and concentration, leading to issues such as depression, anxiety, irritability, brain fog, and memory problems. Understanding these connections highlights the importance of thyroid health for overall mental well-being. Problems occur when thyroid issues are missed. This can happen when one measure is used (TSH) to ascertain whether thyroid issues are present. TSH is not a sensitive measure of thyroid function. A test needs to include a measure of all thyroid hormones so we can clearly see the interaction between them and identify where there might be issues. Thyroid antibodies need to also be checked to understand if the thyroid issue is caused by problems making, converting or using hormones or if the issue is autoimmune. This is important because the nutritional approach is likely to be different depending on the cause of the problem.
