Original Article

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Abstract

Background: Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of blindness, particularly among young adults with diabetes. Early-onset blindness due to diabetic retinopathy can have profound psychiatric implications, severely impacting mental health and overall quality of life. This study aims to investigate the psychiatric sequelae associated with early blindness resulting from diabetic retinopathy, with a focus on age-related factors and the severity of psychological distress.

Objective: To explore the psychiatric consequences of early-onset blindness caused by diabetic retinopathy in young adults, examining the prevalence of depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other mental health disorders, and determining how age at onset influences these outcomes.

Methodology: The study was conducted at the Sindh Institute of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences (SIOVS) in Hyderabad, Sindh, Pakistan. A sample of 150 young adults, aged 18-45, who had experienced blindness due to diabetic retinopathy, was selected. Participants were divided into two groups based on the age at onset of blindness: early adulthood (18-30 years) and late young adulthood (31-45 years). Comprehensive psychiatric evaluations were conducted using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI). In-depth interviews assessed psychological well-being, coping mechanisms, and the impact of blindness on daily life.

Results: The study found a high prevalence of psychiatric disorders among participants. Approximately 70% of individuals in the early adulthood group were diagnosed with major depressive disorder, compared to 55% in the late young adulthood group (p < 0.05). Similarly, 50% of the early adulthood group exhibited significant symptoms of anxiety, compared to 40% in the late young adulthood group (p < 0.05). PTSD was diagnosed in 45% of the early adulthood group, compared to 30% in the late young adulthood group (p < 0.05). Statistical analysis revealed a significant correlation between the age at onset of blindness and the severity of psychiatric symptoms, with younger individuals experiencing more severe psychological distress (p < 0.01).

Conclusion: This study highlights the critical need for targeted mental health services for young adults who experience early blindness due to diabetic retinopathy. The findings suggest that those who become blind at a younger age are more vulnerable to severe psychiatric sequelae. Integrating mental health care with ophthalmologic treatment at institutions like SIOVS can improve the quality of life and psychological well-being of these individuals. The results emphasize the importance of age-specific interventions and support systems for managing the complex health needs of patients with diabetic retinopathy-induced blindness. 

Keywords: Diabetic Retinopathy, Early-Onset Blindness, Psychiatric Sequelae, Depression, and Mental Health.