Depression while sick with the flu?

Question

Is there anything going on physiologically / biochemically that would account for a person becoming really depressed or prone to crying while sick?

I've been sick with the flu for over a week, and now bronchitis, and I find myself extremely sad at times, and crying -- sobbing even -- at the drop of a hat. Is that normal?

Answer 1

First of all, keep in mind how connected your mental health is with your physical health. Everyone tends to be more happy when they're healthy - you just feel better! So consider that now that you're really knocked down - flu plus bronchitis is a big deal - your body doesn't feel right, so you're more sad, more worn out, less able to cope. It makes perfect sense that when you're really sick, you're more depressed.

There is a difference, however, between a 'down' period and having actual depression. The difference is the ability to bounce back. Ideally, you need to spend time making yourself physically healthy again (lots of sleep, fluids, good vitamins, taking your antibiotics for the bronchitis, etc) so that your body can return to normal; once your body's back, your mood should go back to the way it typically is.

If you find it impossible to cope again, always sad, crying often - you might actually be struggling with clinical depression. It can happen that a tough event sets off the actual chemical and emotional combination that leads to depression. An illness could indeed do that to you.

So, in short: a weakened body leads to a depressed emotional state, however temporary. Once your body has fought off the infection you can get back to feeling good - physically and emotionally. If for some reason you don't, you should talk to your doctor about possible treatment.

Take good care of yourself, and good luck!

Answer 2

Yes this is perfectly normal. You were sick and now instead of getting better you just got the diagnosis of Bronchitis. Once you start feeling better I am sure your depression will be better. If it doesn't clear once you are healthy again then talk to your doctor about it. For now it sounds perfectly normal.

Answer 3

Nope, not good. Try to view life as something positive, try to think, "OK im sick now, but ill get better" look forward to not being sick, try it, even if its just fool your self and pretty soon you'll believe it and your flu will not take so bad a toll on your depression / viseversa, Also try to see a counselor about the depression (if you havent already) the sooner the better. Take care.

Answer 4

Sounds normal , but dont prolong the sickness.
U need to get up and help yourself get well.
Get u some B 12 vitamins to boost your brain.

Answer 5

that's hormones and yes it's normal for them to be wacky when sick!