Abstract

Vision problems and eye pathology are often comorbid with psychiatric conditions. This paper provides a review of available studies about these associations and raises awareness on possible causes and impacts of different eye symptoms and vision impairment on psychiatric states and psychological symptoms. Additionally, psychological characteristics and psychiatric conditions are considered as a possible cause of eye and vision-related problems. Most of the studies found an association of eye and vision problems with psychiatric conditions and psychological disturbances. Ophthalmic problems of a milder nature are mostly associated with mood disorders and less commonly with other psychiatric conditions. Serious eye conditions, like a loss of visual acuity, increase the risk for reactive depression. Fewer studies presented a connection between psychotic disorders and vision, which mostly alters visual perception. In the concluding section, possible interactions and relationships between psychiatric conditions and eye and vision problems are presented, along with recommendations for future research. The importance of holistic professional care in patient treatment is particularly emphasized in the recommendations for patient management.