PCOS possible connection with mental health problems
I work as a mental health support worker in Leeds W. Yorks in England. One of my clients has been diagnosed with PCOS but she also suffers from what her psychiatrist says is schizophrenia. We think that there may be some correlation between the symptons of PCOS and schizophrenia and that her mental health problems could have been misdiagnosed. Has anyone else got any experience of this. Has anyone else been diagnosed with mental health problems which could actually be symptoms of PCOS. Does anyone possess any medical evidence of this correlation. Her psychiatrist is refusing to erase the label of schizophrenia from her medical records due to lack of medical evidence
As a biologist, and having done some research, I have a theory on this. I've been talking to other people too, both here and in the scientific comminity, and they agree with me, so see what you think.
I believe that PCOS is a brain disorder, caaused by the hormone control centre called the hypothalamus. This would not only explain how PCOS can cover such as wide range of differing symptoms, BUT also other factors, such as headaches, large ranges of visual problems, epilepsy and many other mental disorders.
Like I say, just a theory, and it is going to need some practical research, which is easier said than done, but ALL biological things start out with theories.
So MY answer is, there probably IS a connection, if I am right.
Kyl
__________________ Kyl (the blind biologist)
Age 26
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No kids and can't have any
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Biology is a wonderful thing, until it goes wrong
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I am sure there must be a link somewhere for sure but with some Dr's reluctant to even acknowledge PCOS, getting them to recognise any of its affects is an uphill battle.
This really needs to be researched properly once and for all, we deserve answers.
I was diagnosed with PCOS at the age of 23, I am now 36. Since I had my second child I have suffered from severe mood swings and depression near my cycle. I actually ended up in a psychiatric unit for 2 weeks as I was suicidal.
I guess what I am describing is severe PMT!!! Recently my GP thought I may have bipolar disorder and he sent me into a panic about this possible diagnosis I can tell you! Then I was referred to a psychiatrist who assured me that I DID NOT have bipolar!
I think that yes there is a definite connection there with PCOS and mental health problems, but purely in the PMT sense for me!
I was diagnosed with PCOS at 19 and at the time, I wasn't told wether or not it corresponded with any sever mood swings or other mental health problems .... I was mainly treated for the cycles (Ortho-Cyclen) and the cosmetic problems (Spironolactone) ....
However, while I was going through college, I was getting counseling for other things that were going on my life (having to do with family and finances), and at the time, I had mood swings and mild depression. A psychiatrist came in to do an evaluation of me .... She prescribed something called Trillifon .... To combat the social anxiety and the difficulty in concentrating that I was having. I spontaneously stopped taking the meds after I felt I didn't need them and haven't been back on them since.
As far as the severe mood swings are concerned (as well as the depression), it happens to me when I am at particularly rough points in my life .... I have had a lot happen to me in my history and that's why I really have no way of knowing if the mood swings are linked to the PCOS or not. These days, I go through periods (a day or two or a couple of hours), when I have negative thoughts (not about suicide or anything very drastic, just very pessimistic). But doesn't everyone go through those periods?
__________________ "Life is pain .... Whoever says any differently is selling something ...."
-Wesley from The Princess Bride
PCOS possible connection with mental health problems 
