An estimated four million Americans live with low vision, conditions that can’t be reversed with corrective lenses or medical intervention. Regardless of the cause, having to adjust to a potentially life-altering diagnosis can have a profound effect on a person’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Of the approximately 500,000 new cases identified each year, an alarming number of individuals learning to adapt to vision loss also struggle with anxiety and depression – conditions that often go untreated.
For more than 80 years, Lighthouse of Houston has provided a diverse range of resources, support services, employment opportunities, and activities designed to help individuals who are blind or have low vision live their best lives. Our Behavioral Health Services include one-on-one counseling for individuals, family members, and caregivers impacted by the complex psychological effects of vision loss – sessions provided by a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC).
Exploring the Psychological Effects of Vision Loss
The links between low vision, anxiety, and depression are multi-faceted and tightly interwoven. Family members and caregivers often express feelings of uncertainty or inadequacy, watching their loved ones struggle with the day-to-day realities of their limitations. For those living with low vision, the mental and emotional strain is infinitely more complex.
Low vision can make it difficult to navigate public spaces, recognize once-familiar faces, and engage in social activities. The loss of independence or the fear of losing independence can adversely affect a person’s sense of self, which can lead to feelings of fear, frustration, or helplessness – psychological effects that can trigger anxiety or depression, conditions with several overlapping symptoms.
Sleep Disturbances
Anxiety and depression can make it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep by altering the regulation and release of the stress hormone cortisol. Both mental health concerns can adversely affect sleep quality. Reports of unrefreshing sleep, low energy levels, and persistent daytime fatigue are common.
Irritability or Agitation
Depression and anxiety can both cause irritability and agitation but through different mechanisms. Anxiety triggers the fight or flight response linked to a heightened state of alarm. The neurochemical imbalances of depression, on the other hand, can impair the ability to regulate emotions effectively.
Difficulty Concentrating
The anxious mind is often overrun with persistent worry and racing thoughts. Depression is most often characterized by melancholy, emptiness, or despair. The unrelentingly negative internal chatter can make it difficult for people with either condition to focus on anything other than the cause of their distress.
The Significance of One-on-One Counseling with a Licensed Professional
Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) are trained to offer objective insights, practical advice, and expert support tailored to the individual needs of their clients. When you schedule an appointment at The Lighthouse of Houston, you’ll be working with an LPC who specializes in addressing the mental health concerns associated with vision loss – stress, anxiety, anger, depression, relationship issues, and more.
Our one-on-one counseling services are available by appointment to individuals diagnosed with low vision, their family members, and caregivers. As you discuss your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, your mental health professional provides feedback, regularly assesses your progress, and adjusts your treatment plan appropriately as your symptoms and overall outlook improve.
Schedule an Appointment Today!
The Lighthouse of Houston offers full services and unparalleled support for people diagnosed with low vision, including comprehensive low vision exams, one-on-one assistance with vision rehabilitation exercises and adaptive aids, and the latest adaptive technology. Our Licensed Professional Counselor provides one-on-one counseling sessions to help address the mental health needs of people impacted by low vision with personalized treatment plans for managing anxiety, depression, stress, anger, relationship issues, and more.
For personalized, one-on-one behavioral health services in the heart of the River Oaks area, submit a contact form or call 713-284-8440 to schedule an appointment with our LPC today!
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