When was your last eye exam?
If you’re having trouble remembering, it may be time to schedule one. Routine eye exams do more than assess your eyesight. They help protect your overall health and support your mental well-being.
How vision problems affect mental well-being
Vision problems can have a significant impact on mental health, often contributing to conditions like depression and anxiety. A recent study found that 1 in 4 adults with vision loss report experiencing anxiety or depression.
The reasons behind an increased risk of mental health challenges after a vision problem diagnosis vary. An article published in the journal Clinical Ophthalmology found that “rates of depression and anxiety are elevated among people with visual impairments.”
Unfortunately, the emotional toll of vision loss is often overlooked. Yet addressing mental well-being is just as important as managing physical symptoms, making mental health screenings a critical step following a vision loss diagnosis.
Why eye exams are important
Eye exams do more than check your vision—they play a key role in protecting your overall health and supporting your mental well-being.
Clear vision is critical for daily life, whether you’re reading, driving or simply navigating the world around you. Consistent eye exams help catch potential issues before they become serious, ensuring long-term eye health and a higher quality of life.
In addition to helping maintain good eyesight, eye exams can also detect serious health conditions like diabetes, brain tumors and heart disease, often before any symptoms appear. Early detection of vision problems can ease stress, reduce anxiety and give you peace of mind.
Healthy habits that support your eyes and mind
In addition to scheduling regular eye exams, there are everyday choices that can boost both vision and mental well-being:
- Daily exercise may help protect against eye damage and reduce stress.
- A nutrient-rich diet full of leafy greens and omega-3s supports both eye and brain health.
- Quitting smoking lowers your risk of eye disease and has been linked to reduced anxiety and depression.
- Open communication with healthcare providers ensures any vision or emotional concerns are addressed early.
Vision insurance makes scheduling eye exams easy
Vision problems can take a significant toll on mental health, affecting everything from confidence to emotional well-being. That’s why preventive care—especially regular eye exams—is so important for protecting both your physical and mental well-being.
Your eyes are more than just the way you see the world. They’re a reflection of your overall wellness. Caring for them is a vital part of caring for your whole self.
Vision insurance makes it easy to find an eye doctor and schedule an eye exam. Learn more about our vision plans and take care of your eye health today!
