Asthma and Mental Illness: Is There a Link?

My purpose is just to alert you to the fact that asthma can sometimes be difficult to cope with and if you start to feel overstressed, anxious or extremely blue, then it's time to get help. Because you don't have to keep feeling that way -- even if your asthma is challenging to get under control.

Prevent It From Happening If You Can

People who live healthy lives are less likely to experience feelings of anxiety and depression. Make healthy food choices, keep your weight in a healthy range, get plenty of sleep, exercise every day for at least 30 minutes, laugh often and nurture a circle of loved ones, and you'll probably find that it's not too hard to keep sad feelings at a distance.

If Anxiety and/or Depression Do Strike, Act Quickly

Don't let the "bad" feelings spiral out of control. Ask for help. Sometimes, just reconnecting with family and/or friends is enough. Other people benefit greatly from talking to people going through the same things as they are. So adults with asthma may want to talk with other adults with asthma, parents of asthmatic kids with other parents, etc. If you can't find a local support group through your American Lung Association or hospital, there are many support groups online, including here at HealthCentral.com.

If this kind of informal help is not enough, you may need professional help. There's no shame in asking for help, especially if you're starting to think about suicide at all. Talk with your doctor about getting a referral, or seek out counseling on your own. But don't wait. Your health is dependent on you taking action.

Find Resources from our Depression site:

Are You Depressed?

Depression or Sadness: How do you Know?

Resources When You're Feeling Suicidal