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Emotional Impact of NASH

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By Editorial Team

2 min read

Reviewed by: HU Medical Review Board | Last reviewed: June 2024

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is an advanced form of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). It is a liver disease that can greatly impact your life.1

Symptoms such as fatigue, abdominal discomfort, and impaired cognitive function can impact daily activities and overall productivity. The burden of managing a chronic liver condition, along with concerns about its progression and potential complications, can add to emotional distress.1

Factors regulating mood, metabolism, and NASH

Diet plays a pretty large role in both mental health and liver disease. What you eat affects the development of NAFLD/NASH. It can also affect your mental well-being. Consuming large amounts of sugar, saturated fats, and processed foods – hallmarks of the Western diet – is linked to:2,3

  • NAFLD/NASH
  • Obesity
  • Heart disease
  • Type 2 diabetes
  • Depression and anxiety

Studies show a 2-way relationship between poor eating habits and mental health conditions. People with depression or anxiety may turn to unhealthy foods as a way to cope. Eating poorly, then, can lead to weight gain and contribute to fat buildup in the liver.2,3

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To complicate matters, the physical health issues that arise from weight gain can worsen people’s overall mental well-being. This may lead them back to eating poorly for comfort. The result is a vicious cycle.2,3

Mental health conditions and NAFLD

Research suggests that people with mental health conditions like depression and anxiety are more likely to have NAFLD. But diet is just one connection between mental health and NAFLD/NASH. People also might face problems like:2,3

  • Socioeconomic challenges, like not having enough money to afford a stable place to live
  • Not being able to see a doctor easily
  • Not having access to healthy foods
  • Smoking
  • Not moving around much (sedentary lifestyle)
  • Sleep problems
  • Alcohol or drug addiction

Other factors like genetics, family history, exposure to dangerous chemicals, and certain medicines also raise the risk of having both a mental health condition and NAFLD. According to a 2020 study, the following mental health disorders were linked to NAFLD and NASH when taking genetic, environmental, and medicine usage into account:2,3

  • Schizophrenia
  • Bipolar disorder
  • Depression

Ways to cope with NASH

Receiving a NASH diagnosis can be overwhelming. But you are not alone. Millions of people worldwide are affected by this liver condition.1

Building a strong network of friends, family, and your healthcare team can provide a good basis for emotional support and guidance. Joining support groups or seeking counseling can also offer a safe space to express your emotions and learn coping strategies.4

Remember to also prioritize self-care. Do things that reduce stress, like meditation, yoga, or getting out in nature. These little things can help with anxiety and improve your overall mental well-being. Make sure you engage in activities you enjoy and maintain social connections. Do not isolate yourself. This will only make mental health challenges worse.4

Early detection is key

Addressing NASH early can help with the emotional burden of living with a chronic condition. A timely diagnosis allows you to get the treatment you need faster. It also gives you a sense of control over your health and empowers you to make informed decisions about your care.2,3

Identifying NASH in its early stages is tricky because there are often no symptoms until the disease becomes more advanced. So, take proactive steps to keep your liver healthy by:3,5

  • Getting regular checkups
  • Managing other health conditions you may have
  • Eating well
  • Exercising regularly