Autoimmune disease is often framed as a physical challenge but the mental and emotional toll can be just as heavy. Over 50% of people with autoimmune conditions also experience depression, anxiety, or trauma-related symptoms. This link between mental health and autoimmune disease is real, and it deserves more attention.
The Emotional Burden of Chronic Illness
Living with unpredictable symptoms, chronic fatigue, and physical limitations can lead to:
- Social withdrawal and isolation
- Grief over lost abilities or identity
- Heightened anxiety during symptom flares
- Ongoing fear of new diagnoses or worsening conditions
These stressors affect emotional regulation, cognitive clarity, and even our belief in the healing process.
The Inflammation-Mood Connection
Autoimmune diseases involve systemic inflammation, which research shows also affects the brain. Inflammation disrupts neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, directly impacting mood and cognitive function.
This is why autoimmune disorders are often associated with:
- Major depressive episodes
- Brain fog and memory issues
- Emotional overwhelm and shutdown
How Highlands in Bloom (HiB) Addresses This Dual Experience
We don’t separate mental health from physical care. Instead, we integrate:
- Individual and group therapy rooted in trauma awareness
- EMDR and somatic processing to support nervous system regulation
- Mindfulness practices that improve emotional flexibility
- Nutrition and functional medicine to reduce neuroinflammation
By treating the whole person, we help our clients move from surviving to thriving.
Holistic Tools for Mental Health Recovery
Journaling
Expressive writing helps process emotion and reduces internal inflammation markers.
PEMF and Red Light Therapy
These tools are shown to improve cellular energy, sleep, and mood-especially in clients with chronic fatigue and pain.
Fascia Work and Self-Massage
Touch is regulating. Foam rolling, fascia tools, and gentle massage can reduce anxiety by calming sensory input.
Connection and Community
Our monthly group “The Body Speaks” is a space where clients feel seen, understood, and supported in a way traditional medicine often overlooks.
Healing the Mind is Healing the Body – Autoimmune Disease and Mental Health
You deserve support that sees all of you not just your lab results. At Highlands in Bloom, we meet you where you are, helping you rebuild your emotional foundation as you recover physically.
Mental wellness isn’t separate from autoimmune recovery it’s an essential part of it.
Highlands in Bloom
Residential Treatment Center for Autoimmune + Mental Health
Agoura Hills, California
(805) 892-6313
Licensed by CDSS • Certified by DHCS • JCAHO Accredited
