Can a Lack of Water Cause Anxiety & Depression?

Adequate hydration can help prevent depression and anxiety.

The symptoms of dehydration are not limited to physical discomforts, but include a wide array of potentially serious cognitive and psychological impairments. Lack of water can cause depression and anxiety. Complications of serious dehydration can include brain damage and death.

Risk

The National Institutes of Health defines dehydration as a potentially deadly lack of water and bodily fluids that poses the greatest danger to children, the elderly, and the ill.

Mood

A study by Tufts University found that a lack of water and fluid intake results in depression, anger, and a generally negative mood. The study examined the effects of dehydration on student athletes.

Anxiety

Adequate hydration is part of a proper nutritional treatment for anxiety and mood stabilization, according to Daniel K. Hall-Flavin, M.D., clinical psychiatrist for the Mayo Clinic.

Dangers

The Mayo Clinic states that dehydration can cause a serious risk of brain damage upon fluid consumption if sodium levels have become depleted, possibly leading to death.

Severe Dehydration

The U.S. National Library of Medicine warns that dehydrated individuals should call 911 emergency services if they feel lightheaded, confused, dizzy or lethargic.

References

• National Institutes of Health: Dehydration
• Tufts Journal: Drink (Water) and Be Happy
• Mayo Clinic: Coping with Anxiety: Can Diet Make a Difference?

Resources

• Johns Hopkins Health Alerts: Are You Getting Enough Liquids?
• National Institute of Mental Health: Anxiety Disorders
• National Alliance on Mental Illness: Depression