TW: This email discusses depression and suicidal thoughts related to thyroid conditions. Please take care of yourself and read when you're in a good headspace.

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I need to share something important with you today - something I wish someone had told me years ago.

Recently, I came across a study that confirmed what I've long suspected: people with Hashimoto's and hypothyroidism face a significantly higher risk of depression and suicidal thoughts.

The research, published in a Danish nationwide register study, found that "death by natural causes, mainly suicide, is increased in patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis." (Read the study here)

This hit me like a ton of bricks because I've lived it.

When I had my thyroidectomy in 2017, no one - not my doctors, not my endocrinologist - warned me about the mental health impact.

They mentioned weight gain. They talked about fatigue.

But depression? Suicidal feelings? Complete silence.

What happened next nearly broke me.

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As my natural thyroid hormones disappeared and I relied on a woefully inadequate dose (75 mcg - practically a starter dose for someone with a functioning thyroid, let alone someone with none), I spiraled into darkness.

Each day grew heavier than the last.

I felt hopeless, convinced everyone would be better off without me.

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Two things saved my life: love and research.

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My 10-year-old son, bless his heart, appointed himself my daily walking buddy.

"Come on, mum," he'd say, coaxing me out for just a short walk around the block.

Those small steps with him kept me going when nothing else could.

Meanwhile, my obsessive research into thyroid function gave me a critical lifeline - knowledge.

Even as despair engulfed me, one tiny part of my brain held onto the fact that these feelings weren't "real" - they were symptoms of severe hypothyroidism that could improve with proper treatment.

It took another endocrinologist (who was horrified at my miniscule dosage with no thyroid) to finally increase me to 125 mcg. Within a week, the fog began lifting. I started to see light again.

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But I was lucky. Too many thyroid patients aren't.

Why am I sharing this deeply personal story?

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Because I believe with every fiber of my being that thyroid patients deserve better. We need to be:

• WARNED about potential serious mental health impacts
• MONITORED regularly, especially after major treatment changes
• SUPPORTED with resources and understanding
• BELIEVED when we say something feels wrong

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Key Takeaways:

1. Depression and anxiety can be SYMPTOMS of hypothyroidism, not just separate conditions
2. Many patients are misdiagnosed with depression when their thyroid is the real issue
3. Suicidal thoughts and psychosis can occur with severe hypothyroidism and require immediate attention
4. Proper medication dosing is absolutely critical for mental wellbeing

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Action Steps:

1. Track your mental health: Keep a simple journal of your mood alongside your physical symptoms
2. Advocate firmly: If you're experiencing depression, insist on comprehensive thyroid testing (not just TSH)
3. Build your support network: Identify at least one person who can check in on you regularly
4. Research wisely: Arm yourself with credible information about thyroid-mental health connections
5. Move daily: Even a 5-minute walk can help stabilize mood during tough periods

Remember: If you're experiencing suicidal thoughts, please reach out immediately to a crisis helpline or emergency services. This is a medical emergency deserving immediate care.

I know this email is heavier than my usual messages.

But sometimes the most important truths are.

Your life is precious, and understanding this connection might just save it - or help you support someone else who's struggling.

You deserve to feel well in both body AND mind. Never let anyone convince you otherwise.

With care and solidarity,

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P.S. The subtle but profound truth I've learned through all of this? Sometimes our deepest struggles become our greatest sources of wisdom and connection. By sharing our vulnerabilities, we create the very support system we needed when we were at our lowest. You're not alone in this journey.

Join the my free group to connect with others who understand.
FREE Facebook Hypothyroid & Hashimotos Support Community.

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If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for support immediately. Help is available 24/7 through these resources:

Crisis Resources

In the UK:

• Samaritans: Call 116 123 (free, 24/7) or email jo@samaritans.org
• Mind: Call 0300 123 3393 (Mon-Fri, 9am-6pm) or text 86463
• Shout: Text SHOUT to 85258 (free, 24/7 text service)
• NHS Urgent Mental Health Helpline: Visit nhs.uk/service-search/mental-health/find-an-urgent-mental-health-helpline for your local number

In the USA:

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 (free, 24/7)
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741 (free, 24/7)
• SAMHSA's National Helpline: Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) (free, 24/7)
• Veterans Crisis Line: Call 1-800-273-8255 and press 1, or text 838255

Online Resources:

• 7 Cups: 7cups.com (free online chat with trained listeners)
• International Association for Suicide Prevention: iasp.info/resources/Crisis_Centres/ (worldwide crisis centers)

If you're in immediate danger, please call emergency services (911 in USA, 999 in UK) or go to your nearest emergency room.

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PLEASE NOTE - I am NOT a Doctor or Medical Professional of any kind.​
The content on this website is strictly for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of medical advice or treatment from a personal physician.
All recipients of this content are advised to consult their doctors or qualified health professionals regarding specific health questions​
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