Beyond vision: economic toll of untreated mental health disorders in ophthalmic patients.

Background: Mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety are highly prevalent among ophthalmic patients, particularly those with progressive vision impairment. Despite the strong interconnection between mental health and vision-related disabilities, mental health support remains underintegrated into ophthalmic care. The economic burden of untreated mental health conditions in visually impaired patients is understudied, particularly in middle-income countries such as Turkey and Bulgaria.

Aims: This study aims to examine the economic impact of untreated mental health disorders among ophthalmic patients, focusing on financial burden, healthcare access disparities and quality of life outcomes. In addition, the study compares barriers to mental healthcare across ophthalmic conditions and between Turkey and Bulgaria.

Method: A qualitative study was conducted using structured surveys and in-depth interviews with 214 ophthalmic patients (107 in Turkey, 107 in Bulgaria). Mental health symptoms were assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (for depression) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (for anxiety) scales. Thematic analysis was applied to qualitative responses.

Results: Over 50% of participants exhibited moderate-to-severe depression and anxiety, with diabetic retinopathy and retinal disease patients experiencing the highest distress levels. Financial barriers were more pronounced in Bulgaria, whereas long psychiatric wait times disproportionately affected retinal patients. Mental health stigma was higher in Bulgaria, limiting care access.

Conclusions: Findings underscore the urgent need for integrating mental health services into ophthalmic care. Policy interventions should focus on financial support, stigma reduction and improved interdisciplinary care models to enhance mental health outcomes for visually impaired individuals.