Neuropsychiatric aspects of Thyroid disorders Thyroid disorders are conditions affecting thyroid gland. Thyroid has important role in metabolism of the body by secreting thyroid hormone. T3, T4, TSH (Thyroid stimulating hormone) are important thyroid hormones for regulating most of the important body functions. Thyroid gland is controlled by pituitary gland and hypothalamus- organs located in the brain. Hence thyroid disorders show symptoms related to brain. Thyroid disorders are- hypothyroidism(less thyroid hormone) hyperthyroidism (excessive thyroid hormone) and thyroid cancers Neuropsychiatric manifestations are ranging from mild depression and anxiety to overt psychosis (which is severe form of psychiatric illness) Dementia (forgetfulness, impairment in decision making, impaired judgement) is seen in 50% of thyroid disorder patients Affective Disorders –Emotional issues like Depression is seen in 40% of thyroid disorder patients. However, mania is rare Anxiety Disorders like palpitations, excessive sweating, worrying thoughts, feeling of restlessness is seen in 30% of the population. Hypothyroid patients frequently demonstrate features of depression, cognitive dysfunction like problems in thinking decision making, loss of interest in activities, apathy and psychomotor slowing Anxiety, tremors, sleep disturbances, irritability, emotional lability, and impairment in concentration constitute the classical neuropsychiatric symptoms occurring in hyperthyroidism Role of Thyroid in depression- Studies have reported that upto 10% of patients with depression are having hypothyroidism as co-morbidity. Role in cognitive dysfunction- Hypothyroidism can lead to impaired consciousness , memory disturbances and psychomotor slowing Most commonly affected- working memory and executive function Elderly - Progressive dementia (Pseudo dementia) which improves with thyroid supplements Emotional problems due to thyroid disorders are treatable and reversible if identified at earlier stage with medications and counselling sessions. Hence identifying above symptoms is important and seeking help is essential to resolve the emotional problems.