A large cohort study found that individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) or axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) have an increased risk of developing mood and anxiety disorders.

This study shows significant associations between autoimmune arthritides and mental health conditions, with RA being inversely associated with schizophrenia and Alzheimer’s disease. The study cohort included 322,158 individuals with RA and 56,148 individuals with axSpA, and the findings suggest potential shared etiological mechanisms or medication effects. This study sheds light on the disease-specific relationship between RA and depression, particularly in younger individuals, and highlights the need for further investigation into the underlying mechanisms.

Source: BMJ Mental Health