How battling antimicrobial resistance can take a toll on your body, mind and mood

What is antimicrobial resistance: There is growing evidence of a link between antibiotic resistance and mental health issues, stemming from factors related to the management of drug-resistant infections (Image: Canva)

Antimicrobial drugs are used to prevent and treat infections caused by various microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. These medications target specific processes or structures within the pathogens, inhibiting their growth or killing them outright. Antibiotics are the primary treatment for bacterial infections such as pneumonia, strep throat, and urinary tract infections.

Antivirals are utilised for viral infections like influenza and HIV, antifungals are prescribed for fungal infections such as candidiasis, and antiparasitic drugs address infections caused by parasites, such as malaria and giardiasis.

However, a recent report by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) warns that infections like UTIs, pneumonia, and typhoid in India are becoming resistant to common antibiotics, making treatment increasingly difficult.

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Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health crisis that impacts not only physical health but also mental well-being, says Dr Umang Agrawal, Infectious Diseases Consultant at P.D. Hinduja Hospital & MRC. “There is growing evidence of a link between antibiotic resistance and mental health issues, stemming from factors related to the management of drug-resistant infections,” he explains.

Dr Agrawal elaborates on how various antimicrobial-resistant infections can worsen existing mental health problems or lead to new ones.

• Impact: Patients with highly resistant infections often face isolation to prevent spreading the disease, which severely limits social interactions, including with family and friends. This isolation can lead to loneliness, a lack of emotional support, and heightened feelings of depression and anxiety. Physical limitations from the infection further restrict patients' mobility and daily activities, adding to their mental strain.

• Isolation: The uncertainty around treating drug-resistant infections also contributes to psychological stress. Patients and families face the fear that conventional treatments may not work, leading to anxiety and feelings of helplessness, which can worsen existing mental health issues.

• Limitations: Addressing the mental health impact of AMR requires a holistic approach. Comprehensive mental health support, including counseling, peer support, and therapy, is essential. In some cases, psychiatric medications may be needed to help patients cope.

• Uncertainty: Equally important is addressing the root cause, antimicrobial resistance. Strengthening infection control, promoting hand hygiene, and enforcing antibiotic stewardship programmes can reduce resistant infections, which in turn helps lessen the mental health burden by reducing isolation and improving treatment outcomes.

• Support: Healthcare providers and policymakers must recognise the connection between AMR and mental health. Integrating mental health support into the care of patients with drug-resistant infections, may help improve both their psychological and physical well-being. A holistic approach to managing AMR and mental health is essential for improving the patient outcomes.