Abstract
The impact of Ehlers-Danlos syndrome on patients’ mental health
Akademia Zdrowia Psychicznego Harmonia, LUX-MED, Warszawa, Polska Harmonia Mental Health Academy, LUX-MED, Warsaw, Poland
Personalized Psychiatry 2026; 5: e108–e112
Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) comprises a group of rare genetic connective tissue disorders characterized by joint hypermobility, chronic pain, skin changes, and cardiovascular abnormalities. Increasing evidence shows that EDS has a significant impact on mental health. This paper aims to summarize current knowledge on the psychological functioning of individuals with EDS. Studies indicate that EDS patients experience anxiety and depressive disorders more frequently than the general population. Chronic pain, functional limitations, diagnostic delays, and uncertainty regarding treatment contribute to the severity of psychopathological symptoms. Neurodevelopmental conditions, including ADHD, motor coordination difficulties, and autism spectrum traits, are also reported more often in this population. Possible comorbidity with personality disorders has additionally been described. Social and occupational difficulties further reduce quality of life. These findings highlight the need for interdisciplinary care, including psychological support, mental health assessment, and effective pain management.
Keywords
depression, ADHD, anxiety, neurodevelopmental disorders, hypermobility, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome
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