Sadness. Frustration. Depression. Maybe even grief. These are some of the emotions people feel when faced with physical challenges. Both vision loss and aging can present very real challenges.

Trying to hide negative feelings is difficult. And it’s not usually possible, at least not for long. Loved ones and friends see the changes and sense the tension. They may experience similar troubling feelings, too. Others want to help and to be supportive.

So what is known about these feelings and how to handle them?

People who experience vision loss after many years of sight often experience some common emotions :

• Shock that this unexpected loss has occurred
• Frustration at not knowing how to do many things they could previously do
• Anger over the loss of sight and their resulting frustrations
• Resentment of others who still have good vision
• Sadness at the possibility of giving up favorite activities
• Loneliness when travel and social contacts become limited
• Depression that can lead to a sense of hopelessness

Sometimes the feelings can be similar to the five well known “ grief stages ” originally described in the work of Dr. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross. These stages are widely felt to represent reactions of people receiving many types of difficult news.

1. Denial and Isolation “This can’t be happening to me.” “No one else can understand.”
2. Anger “It’s not fair.” “This is the worst thing that could happen.”
3. Bargaining “If I rest my eyes enough, maybe my sight will return.”
4. Depression “My anger is gone, but now I feel nothing.”
5. Acceptance “I can learn to live with my vision loss and make the most of my life.”

“Acceptance” in this list is positive: it is the ability to resolve negative feelings and to move forward constructively. For a person experiencing vision loss, acceptance can mean building the most satisfying and independent life possible. Personal relationships, work, daily living, recreation and social activities all continue actively and creatively. They bring joy to self and to others.

Depression

Information from the Mayo Clinic says, “Depression is a disorder that affects your thoughts, moods, feelings, behavior and physical health. People used to think that it was ‘all in your head’ and that if you really tried, you could ‘pull yourself out of it.’ Doctors now know that depression is not a weakness, and you can’t treat it on your own. It’s a medical disorder with a biological or chemical basis.”

Depression can be brought on by a stressful life event, such as vision loss. Two of the most important symptoms that help doctors to diagnose depression are:

• Loss of interest in normal daily activities
• Depressed mood

People may also experience many other symptoms, such as excessive tiredness, difficulty sleeping, loss of concentration, or significant weight gain or loss. Any of these symptoms, if experienced frequently for at least two weeks, may be signs of depression.

Treatment for depression varies, depending on the individual’s symptoms and condition. Treatment is often very effective, and may include medications. If vision loss is present, learning about dealing with it may also help in addressing the problem of depression.

How do I know if I need help dealing with these feelings?

What are some signs that my emotional responses to my vision loss are problematic, and that I need to seek out some professional assistance? When should I talk with my doctor?

Individual responses and emotional states vary widely. According to the National Mental Health Association , people suffering from depression often experience some of these key symptoms ^* :

• A persistent sad, anxious or “empty” mood
• Sleeping too little, early morning awakening, or sleeping too much
• Reduced appetite and weight loss, or increased appetite and weight gain
• Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
• Restlessness or irritability
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions
• Fatigue or loss of energy
• Thoughts of death or suicide

^* Screenings are not a professional diagnosis. Screenings point out the presence or absence of depressive symptoms and provide a referral for further evaluation if needed. You should see your doctor or a qualified mental health professional if you experience five or more of these symptoms for longer than two weeks or if the symptoms are severe enough to interfere with your daily routine .

An on-line screening test for depression is one simple tool to evaluate whether a problem may exist.

By finding ways to express strong emotions and by seeking help as needed, someone with vision loss can begin the journey toward a new life. A different life than before? Perhaps. But it will be a life of new possibilities and open doors.