Mind–body and chronic symptoms · United States · Sourced health feature

Chronic illness and depression: a two-way relationship

NIMH explains that chronic illness can increase depression risk.

NIMH · Published: 2026-10-11

Considering physical and mental health together

NIMH explains interactions between chronic illness and depression. Illness burden, medication and biological changes may contribute; depression can hinder self-care. Depression remains treatable alongside chronic illness. The guide does not attribute all disease to psychological causes.

Editorial perspective

Valuing physical and emotional needs together is hopeful. Depression remains treatable alongside chronic disease. This feature encourages discussion of appropriate support rather than self-blame.

Distinguishing use from evidence

These independent institutional summaries distinguish mental health, mind–body relationships and complementary practices. Psychological factors do not cause all illnesses. Findings about relaxation or psychotherapy cannot be transferred to Reiki or devices. Offering Reiki in a hospital does not establish therapeutic efficacy or imply endorsement of WorkNestAcademy. Reiki does not replace medical diagnosis or treatment. NCCIH states that effectiveness for health purposes has not been clearly demonstrated.

NCCIH · Reiki ↗