The Psychology Of Hypothyroidism

If we were to study the functioning of a factory, it could be divided into certain important steps;

A production line that goes into creation of the smaller parts of a larger product
Assembly lines where these smaller parts will be assembled in various sequences to create that larger product
Giving final touches to the product
Keeping the employees pepped up and the machinery in good condition
Keeping the energy lines active throughout (coal/ electricity)

If we were to compare our whole body as an aggregate of various organs and systems, it too can be compared to a factory that has different product lines simultaneously going on.

And if we were to search for one word that can explain that can describe these activities at a physiological level; the word would be ‘metabolism.’

And further on, if we were to search for one hormone that has a significant role in controlling the metabolism of our body, that would be the thyroid hormones (T₃& T₄).

Hypothyroidism, thus is the condition when the levels of these hormones are reduced leading to reduction in the metabolism of body, expressing itself in the form of;

Coldness of body and cold intolerance – due to lower heat production in the body
Slowing of pulse
Reduced appetite, torpor and similar states of lethargy
Slowed bowel movements and constipation

Psychology of Hypothyroidism:

Is that the thyroid hormones control our metabolism or could it be possible that the thyroid hormone is a reflection of our body to carry out the various metabolic activities.
Going back to the example of a factory, we can ask the question as to when and why is it that a factory slows down its production. The answer is, either;

When there is a cyclical reduction in the demand of the product or
There are repeated losses incurred that could Demotivate, importantly the investors who may not shut down the entire factory but may pull back investments which automatically reduce its functioning.

Patients having hypothyroidism are also seen to be affected by states of Frustration, Demotivation or Depression. But rather than being an associated symptom of hypothyroidism, it is also seen to be the reason behind this condition. Long drawn stressful situations where the results are either painful or severely against the expectations can gradually lead to demotivated states, further leading to affection of the thyroid function.

Counselling and effective Stress Management programs which have helped overcome the depressive moods, is often seen to improve the thyroid functions simultaneously.

The Psychology Of Hypothyroidism