In our society, many families discourage the expression of emotion. She emphasized the importance of sharing feelings in our support groups. The insecurities, frustrations and adjustments related to the gluten-free diet and the illness should be aired with those who understand our situation. Such meetings can contribute greatly to easing denial, isolation and potential anger.
Depression is a manifestation of anger turned inward.
The symptoms include unpredictable tears, sadness that lingers longer than the situation warrants, too much or too little sleep, listlessness, trouble concentrating, extreme guilt, suicidal thoughts, too little or too much appetite, and a sense of worthlessness. Expressing the anger either verbally or in writing can be the start toward resolution of the problem, but the long-suppressed emotions tend to resurface again and again. Tools for coping listed by Dr. Garnett include exercise, good nutrition, adequate rest, personal time for relaxation, leisure and play, keeping a journal, facing feelings and accepting them, and expressing thoughts and feelings with others. Depression can be a symptom of celiac disease and is caused by abnormally low levels of three major monoamines in the cerebrospinal fluid as a result of malnourishment. This protection factor is best discussed with a monitoring physician and is suggested to be done by prescription.