Addressing Catheter-Related Mental Health Issues: Strategies for a Better Quality of Life

Neurogenic bladder may be a result of SCI, Spina Bifida, MS, and other conditions, requiring the use of a catheter for bladder management. Medical conditions and stress may alter neurotransmitters in the brain, linked to physical and emotional changes after a traumatic event.

The need for catheters is a direct result of another health condition, which may come with mental health concerns or emotional challenges. Research shows a relationship exists between emotional domains and achieving a “new normal” after a traumatic event, such as an SCI. It has been hypothesized that the use of catheters may impact users' emotional status; however, further investigation is necessary to discover the extent of the neurogenic bladder's impact on emotional and mental health.

Common Mental Health Challenges:

Depression and anxiety associated with catheter use: It’s important to note the difference between grief/sadness and depression. Grief/sadness/anger/etc are not uncommon feelings after a traumatic event; however, depression is a clinical condition that impacts a person’s ability to engage in their daily tasks, and it significantly impairs their thoughts and feelings.

Research shows that females demonstrate a significant increase in both depression and anxiety compared to males; this difference is compared between those who are independent and those who require assistance for bladder management.

Achieving the optimal level of independence for bladder management takes time and may change as functional abilities change.

“The best way to combat your feelings of helplessness and confusion is to arm yourself with information on what a (spinal cord injury) is, and what it means in terms of short-term planning and long-range goals.” -Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation

Concerns may exist surrounding pain/discomfort, leakage between catheterizations, intimate relationships, and more. Discuss these with your clinical team and know that strategies