Many people with vestibular disorders experience dizziness-related depression and/or anxiety. The symptoms of some vestibular disorders can be distressing and upsetting. They can include nausea, vomiting, sweating, panic sensations and ‘situation avoidance’ behaviours. These symptoms are real and legitimate – they do not represent psychiatric disease.

Symptoms of depression

A general rule of thumb for recognizing depression is experiencing at least five of the following symptoms continually for more than two weeks:

• Depressed mood
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness or hopelessness
• Loss of interest or pleasure in usually-enjoyed activities
• Change in weight or appetite
• Sleep disturbances
• Decreased energy or fatigue (without significant physical exertion)
• Thoughts of death
• Poor concentration or difficulty making decisions

Seeking professional help

If you suspect you might be depressed, checking in with your family doctor is a good place to begin. If you or someone you know is having recurring thoughts of suicide, it is very important that they get medical help right away.

For immediate help

Contact the Crisis Centre. Help is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Phone:

• Anywhere in BC: 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433)
• Vancouver: 604-872-3311
• Sunshine Coast/Sea to Sky: 1-866-661-3311

How to find mental health professionals in BC

Source

What is depression? Public Health Agency of Canada. Available from: https://bit.ly/2kmt19f. Accessed 9 September 2019.