{"id":20677,"date":"2023-07-01T10:33:17","date_gmt":"2023-07-01T15:33:17","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/blog\/?p=20677"},"modified":"2023-08-31T11:18:16","modified_gmt":"2023-08-31T16:18:16","slug":"the-connection-between-vision-and-emotional-well-being","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/blog\/guides\/the-connection-between-vision-and-emotional-well-being\/","title":{"rendered":"The Connection Between Vision and Emotional Well-Being"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vision is necessary for many daily tasks, and when you have enjoyed good vision for most of your life, it is easy to take for granted. However, for those who are experiencing vision loss and disease, their vision can begin to have a significant impact on their mental health.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The connection between <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cdc.gov\/visionhealth\/resources\/features\/vision-loss-mental-health.html#:~:text=Loss%20of%20vision%20has%20been,in%20people%20with%20vision%20loss.\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">vision and emotional well-being<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a well-documented phenomenon. Learning about this connection can help you to maintain your mental health and quality of life as you seek treatment for eye disease.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How are Emotional Well-being and Vision Connected?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vision loss or impairment can have a significant emotional impact on individuals. Adjusting to changes in visual abilities, coping with limitations, and adapting to new ways of doing daily tasks can be challenging. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/eye-doctors\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Finding and working with an eye doctor<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can assist with the physical changes and treatments, but there are emotional hurdles to overcome with a vision-related diagnosis.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The necessary adjustments can lead to rising levels of emotional distress, including feelings such as sadness, frustration, or anxiety.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/therapist-counselors\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Therapists and Counselors<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> can play a crucial role in helping individuals navigate these challenges and develop coping strategies.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How Can Vision Impairments Impact Mental Health?<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vision impairment can bring many changes to a person\u2019s lifestyle. Challenges such as social isolation, emotional distress, and reduced independence can significantly impact an individual\u2019s mental health.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Social Isolation<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Studies have found that across all age groups, the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/link.springer.com\/article\/10.1186\/s12955-019-1096-y\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">rates of loneliness are higher in the visually impaired population<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> when compared to the general population.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">According to the American Psychological Association, social isolation can have <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.apa.org\/monitor\/2019\/05\/ce-corner-isolation#:~:text=%22Lacking%20encouragement%20from%20family%20or,also%20augment%20depression%20or%20anxiety.%22\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">far-reaching effects on an individual\u2019s mental health<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Isolation and loneliness can have detrimental impacts on a person\u2019s physical health, mental well-being, and cognitive function, such as:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">An inability to get adequate amounts of sleep<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A decline in cognitive function<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A weakened immune system<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A higher risk of mental health conditions such as depression<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>For those struggling with visual impairment, there can be factors that limit their ability to interact with others regularly. A lack of transportation, difficulty navigating new spaces, and increased amounts of doctor\u2019s appointments can limit the amount of time a person with visual impairment spends building relationships and connections with others.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Emotional Distress<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">A diagnosis of an illness that causes pain, discomfort, visual impairment, or blindness can cause emotional distress in patients. They are faced with the knowledge that their vision may deteriorate to a point that greatly impacts their ability to live independently. For some, there is the knowledge that someday their vision will be completely gone.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">This knowledge, and the emotional and psychological stress that it causes, is completely understandable. Some individuals initially <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.mentalhealthjournal.org\/articles\/psychological-impact-of-vision-loss.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">cope with the stress by living in denial<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. For others, the distress caused by vision impairment presents as feelings of grief and loss.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">With the help of trained mental health professionals, such as therapists and counselors, individuals facing a vision-related diagnosis can work through their distress in healthy ways.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reduced Independence<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Visual impairment can cause <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/books\/NBK402367\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">reduced independence<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and limit an individual\u2019s ability to perform daily tasks. These limitations will depend on the type and severity of vision loss and can include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Reading<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Visual impairment can impact a person\u2019s ability to read. This limits their ability to easily manage their finances, follow recipes and cook for themselves, and other tasks. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.afb.org\/blindness-and-low-vision\/braille\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tools such as Braille<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and audio apps allow visually impaired individuals to read without using their eyes, but there may still be limitations on a person\u2019s independence depending on the tools available to them.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Moving<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Driving and bicycling around town require visual abilities that not everyone has. For people who are recently visually impaired, tasks such as running errands and visiting friends may require the help of others. Even moving around a home can be risky, with an <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC9746100\/#:~:text=Cross%2Dsectional%20studies%20show%20that,and%20related%20fractures%20%5B20%5D.\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">increased risk of falls and accidents<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> for older visually impaired individuals.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Working<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: Visual impairment may <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.afb.org\/research-and-initiatives\/employment\/reviewing-disability-employment-research-people-blind-visually\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">limit a person\u2019s employment opportunities<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> due to a lack of transportation, lack of training, and negative responses from possible employers. In some cases, this can lead to a loss of financial independence.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>When a visually impaired adult begins to experience reduced independence, this can impact their mental health. Studies have found that a <a href=\"https:\/\/agsjournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com\/doi\/abs\/10.1111\/jgs.16423\"><span>limited ability to perform tasks<\/span><\/a><span> associated with personal care can largely affect mental health and, as a result, quality of life.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Understanding Unique Mental Health Challenges for Vulnerable Populations<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When looking at the mental health challenges faced by those dealing with vision loss and eye disease, it is important to consider the challenges specifically faced by vulnerable populations.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Children and senior citizens with eye disease deal with challenges specific to their age.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Children<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Children dealing with conditions impacting their visual health face a variety of challenges, including:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Academic challenges\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Bullying and stigmatization\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/blog\/caring-for-the-eyes-of-children-with-special-needs\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Developmental delays<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Children with visual impairments need to receive support from adults in their lives. These adults, including parents, teachers, counselors, and doctors, can assist children as they learn the skills needed to live a good, quality life.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Senior Citizens<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Senior citizens living with visual impairment also deal with challenges specific to their age, including:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/ncoa.org\/article\/living-with-vision-loss-practical-tips-for-safety-and-independence\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Safety concerns\u00a0<\/span><\/a><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cognitive decline\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Increased dependency<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>It is important to note that several <a href=\"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/blog\/eye-health-for-seniors-a-guide-to-vision-concerns-for-aging-eyes\/\"><span>conditions that seniors commonly live with<\/span><\/a><span>, including diabetes and high blood pressure, can negatively impact a person\u2019s eyesight.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The Relationship Between Stress, Depression, and Anxiety and Eye Diseases<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While eye disease and visual impairment can impact mental health, there are also many ways that mental health conditions can contribute to eye disease.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stress, depression, and anxiety increase an individual\u2019s risk of developing eye disease, and they can also worsen the symptoms of a pre-existing eye disease.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Stress and Eye Diseases<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Chronic stress and anxiety can contribute to the development of certain eye diseases and can exacerbate symptoms. Conditions such as glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration (AMD), and dry eye syndrome may be influenced by stress. Some <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC5972137\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">eye-related symptoms caused by stress<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Eye strain and fatigue<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Dry eyes<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Blurred vision<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Increased sensitivity to light<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Eye twitching<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Managing stress in healthy ways may have a positive impact on eye health. Working with a mental health professional, such as a therapist, counselor, or psychiatrist, can help you to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.apa.org\/topics\/stress\/tips\"><span>develop healthy coping mechanisms for stress<\/span><\/a><span>.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Depression and Eye Diseases<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Depression impacts every facet of a person\u2019s life, so it is no surprise that it can have an impact on visual health in many ways.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Conditions such as <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6314109\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">dry eye can be caused by depression<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> and can also cause depressive symptoms. People with depression may spend more time in front of screens, which can worsen dry eye symptoms. Conversely, the physical discomfort and limitations caused by dry eyes can worsen depressive symptoms.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Studies have found that one-third of older adults who are visually impaired are <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC9103717\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">living with depression<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, which is twice the rate found in the general population. For this reason, it is important for visually impaired people to reach out for mental health counseling if they are experiencing symptoms of depression.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Anxiety and Eye Diseases<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Anxiety is experienced by <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nimh.nih.gov\/health\/statistics\/any-anxiety-disorder\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">more than 31% of adults<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. This condition can have various effects on vision during <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/blog\/how-to-know-if-youre-having-a-panic-attack\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">anxious episodes and panic attacks<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. Some ways that anxiety can impact eye health include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Blurred vision<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tunnel vision<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sensitivity to light<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Eye strain and dry eyes<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Seeking assistance from a therapist can help to improve your ability to cope with panic attacks and can limit the visual impact they have.<\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Treatment for Vision Loss and Diseases<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After a diagnosis, a patient needs to pursue treatment for vision loss and eye diseases when possible. By working with trusted medical professionals and taking charge of your visual health, you can become <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov\/pmc\/articles\/PMC6314203\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">proactive instead of reactive<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, preventing further vision loss.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consult an Eye Care Specialist<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you suspect that you are experiencing vision loss or eye disease, then your first step should be to consult an eye care specialist. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.facs.org\/for-medical-professionals\/education\/programs\/so-you-want-to-be-a-surgeon\/section-iii-surgical-specialties\/ophthalmology\/#:~:text=To%20become%20a%20general%20ophthalmologist,least%20a%20one%2Dyear%20internship.\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Eye doctors are trained<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> to identify and treat diseases and conditions of the eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before you make an appointment, conduct research online to find a well-reviewed eye doctor in your area.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Discuss Treatment Options and Ask Questions<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">After your eye doctor diagnoses your condition, you\u2019ll need to discuss treatment options. Your doctor may suggest options such as medication or surgery.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As your doctor outlines your treatment options, ask questions such as:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What are the side effects of the medications you are recommending?\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What are the risks associated with this surgery?\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If my condition is incurable, what positive impact will these treatment options have on my quality of life moving forward?\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Are these <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/blog\/how-to-find-affordable-eye-care\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">treatment options affordable<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">? What financial impact will these treatments have?<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Asking clarifying questions can help you to make an informed decision and feel confident in your healthcare plan moving forward.<\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Seek Second Opinions<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.verywellhealth.com\/top-reasons-to-get-a-second-opinion-4144734\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Getting a second opinion<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a fantastic way to learn more about your condition and your treatment options. In some cases, your eye doctor may refer you to another doctor who specializes in your specific condition.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You can also request a second opinion if you want to make sure that your diagnosis is correct or to learn more about alternative treatment options.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Follow the Treatment Plan<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Once you have chosen a treatment plan, you will need to follow that plan. Be careful to follow all of your doctor\u2019s instructions exactly, including any medications, hygiene practices, and changes to your daily habits, such as time spent staring at screens.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">By following your chosen treatment plan as closely as possible, you can make the most of the treatments you are receiving.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Monitor Your Eye Health<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Even after your treatment, it is important to remain aware of your eye health and monitor any changes that occur. Some changes, like a decline in vision, may be anticipated based on your diagnosis.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">As you move forward, take notes about the severity and frequency of any eye-related symptoms, and don\u2019t hesitate to discuss these with your doctor.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Support and Accommodations<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Reaching out for support and accommodations can reduce your stress as you work with your eye doctor to monitor your eye health. If you are a parent or guardian, and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/blog\/whats-a-well-child-visit\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">your child\u2019s recent check-up<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> showed signs of vision loss, you can also benefit from additional information, support, and accommodations. Some options include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vision rehabilitation services<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Support groups<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Assistive technology<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Accessibility services and accommodations<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Vision loss organizations and foundations<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Rehabilitation centers and hospitals<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These tools and resources can help you and your loved ones as you seek treatment for your eye disease. They can also help as you learn to live with vision loss. The above options may differ depending on where you live, but your eye doctor can help you find the support you need.<\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Additional Resources for Vision Loss<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you or a loved one are experiencing vision loss, there are resources available to help you through this difficult time. These resources include:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.afb.org\/blindness-and-low-vision\/visionaware\"><b>American Foundation for the Blind<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: The foundation offers resources for adults who are new to vision loss, including lists of healthcare providers, tips for daily lifestyle changes, and support as individuals adjust to life with vision loss.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/hadley.edu\/\"><b>The Hadley Institute for the Blind and Visually Impaired<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: This organization provides educational services for blind and visually impaired individuals. These services include Braille lessons available online and via mail and a video series detailing the ways technology can help individuals with visual impairment.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.acb.org\/\"><b>American Council of the Blind<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: This organization offers an accessible, monthly newsletter offered in Braille and as a podcast. They also offer scholarships for legally blind students to attend college or university.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These organizations provide resources that can help those who are blind or visually impaired live full lives, learn new skills, and build a community.<\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Additional Resources for Mental Health<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you or a loved one are struggling with a mental health condition, there are resources available online that can provide support in a crisis. You can also learn more about your mental illness and learn about treatment options.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.samhsa.gov\/find-help\/national-helpline\"><b>Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: This organization offers a mental health hotline, resources for those coping with mental illnesses, and information about recovery and support.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/adaa.org\/\"><b>Anxiety and Depression Association of America<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: This organization provides help with finding mental health treatment, access to peer support groups, and free webinars and articles outlining options for therapy.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.nami.org\/home\"><b>National Alliance on Mental Illness<\/b><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: The alliance offers a helpline, support groups, and online resources to help educate people about mental illness and options for treatment.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>These resources can help blind and visually impaired individuals to improve their emotional well-being and cope with the stresses that they may be facing as a result of their eye health.<\/p>\n<h1 style=\"text-align: center;\">Need a doctor? Find one on\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/\">Zocdoc<\/a>.<\/h1>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Vision is necessary for many daily tasks, and when you have enjoyed good vision for most of your life, it is easy to take for granted. However, for those who are experiencing vision loss and disease, their vision can begin to have a significant impact on their mental health. The connection between vision and emotional [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":82,"featured_media":20678,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[227],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-20677","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-guides"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v25.5 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>The Connection Between Vision and Emotional Well-Being - Guides<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"By seeking treatment from eye doctors and therapists, patients can improve their overall health and cope with the stresses that come with eye disease and vision loss.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.zocdoc.com\/blog\/guides\/the-connection-between-vision-and-emotional-well-being\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"The Connection Between Vision and Emotional Well-Being - 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