Mental madness associated with AS
Anxiety, depression, panic attacks, and everything in between has been as difficult a struggle as the physical issues (which are far more than most people unfamiliar with AS seem to know)
I am curious how the mental side has been for everyone else. This is my first time ever seeking connections with others with AS, and it has been a long time a coming!
I have realized the constant battle of physical issues has taken its toll on the mental side. But I have come to find that it's not just situational depression that I have had to deal with. The same processes of inflammation directly affect brain chemistry.
So please, I would love to hear from anyone who wishes to share!
Yes mental health issues are a part of my AS. Mood swings,depression,anxiety,and 5 years into diagnosis I’m just now considering therapist to help. I’ll keep u posted 
I have long made my therapist part of my care team. I suggest each person with a chronic illness investigate having a relationship. It has helped me a good deal.
rick - moderator
Hi
- Thank you so much for posting and reaching out. You are most certainly not the only person who experiences mental illness with AS. While we are waiting for other community members to chime in, I am going to link some relevant resources that might be helpful. Hopefully we will see some more members jump into the conversation soon 😀.
has written a fantastic article about his experience with depression and AS, which you can find here: https://ankylosingspondylitis.net/living/mental-health
For you and others who may follow this thread at a later date, the following resources might be helpful:
Frequently Asked Questions about Mental Health: https://ankylosingspondylitis.net/mental-health/frequently-asked-questions
Mental Health Myths and Facts: https://ankylosingspondylitis.net/mental-health/myths-facts
Coping with Mental Health: Medications https://ankylosingspondylitis.net/mental-health/medications
Coping with Mental Health: Therapy https://ankylosingspondylitis.net/mental-health/psychotherapy
Recovery from Mental Health: https://ankylosingspondylitis.net/mental-health/recovery
Cheers,
- Cody (Community Moderator)
