October 2025
Vision care professionals are often the first to spot systemic health issues. One area that’s easy to overlook is the link between mental health and vision. Understanding this connection helps you provide more holistic care and improve patient outcomes.
How mental health affects vision
Stress, anxiety and depression can affect the eyes in surprising ways. Common symptoms include:
- Blurry vision
- Eye strain or twitching
- Light sensitivity
- Headaches
- Dry eyes or excessive tearing
Chronic stress can raise cortisol levels and intraocular pressure1, which may contribute to:
- Glaucoma
- Optic neuropathy
- Age-related macular degeneration
Vision impairment isn’t just physical—it affects emotional well-being:
- 1 in 4 adults with vision loss experiences clinically significant anxiety or depression2
- Older adults with visual impairment are more likely to suffer from anxiety disorders than their sighted peers2
- Social isolation is 50% more common among those with vision impairment, increasing the risk of loneliness and emotional decline2
What you can do
Your role goes beyond diagnosing eye conditions — you’re a vital ally in your patients’ overall well-being. Consider these steps:
- Screen for emotional distress during exams, especially in patients with new or progressive vision loss
- Refer patients to mental health professionals or low vision rehabilitation programs when appropriate
- Educate patients on stress-reducing habits like mindfulness and exercise
- Promote assistive technology and accessibility tools to boost independence and confidence3
By recognizing the correlation between mental and visual health, you can help patients see more clearly — both physically and emotionally.