Ive experienced depression since the onset of dry eye syndrome. Is that unusual?
There are several reasons chronic dry eye can lead to clinical depression. Dry eye patients need to be on the alert, understand why they may be susceptible to depression and why this is normal, and speak with both their eye doctor and their GP about their concerns. First, the pain can be constant and severe. Most people who have never had dry eye or a serious eye injury have no conception how much pain the eyes are capable of producing. It can drive one to distraction. When chronic, it is a constant drain on one’s coping resources. Second, there is a direct and sometimes dramatic impact on lifestyle. Outdoor activities, for example, may become impossible, because of irritation from air/wind and/or because of extreme light sensitivity. Work, especially in air-conditioned or heated offices and with fluorescent lighting, not to mention working on a computer, can be far more difficult to get through. Third, appearance can be affected. Chronically red eyes are unsightly. Women may find they
