Anxiety, Depression & Hypermobility: What Parents Need to Know

Jan 3

4 min read

Understanding the Mental Health Side of Chronic Pain in Teens & Young Adults

When we talk about hypermobility, we often focus on the physical challenges - joint pain, fatigue or dislocations. But there’s another side that’s just as important: mental health.

If your child lives with hypermobility, you might notice signs of anxiety, low mood, irritability or social isolation. And you’re not imagining it - research shows a strong link between hyper mobility and mental health conditions, especially hypermobility with anxiety and depression.

This blog will help you understand that connection, what signs to look out for and how you can support your teen or young adult emotionally, as well as physically.

The Hidden Link Between Hypermobility and Mental Health

Anxiety & depression in hypermobile teens an young adults

Mental health challenges in hypermobile people aren't just a response to pain - they can also be the result of how the brain and body are wired.

Here’s why your child may be more vulnerable to anxiety and depression:

🧠 Nervous System Sensitivity

People with hypermobility often have differences in how their nervous systems respond to stress. The same connective tissue that affects their joints also impacts the gut, heart, and brain, making them more reactive to both physical and emotional stimuli.

💓 Dysautonomia (e.g., POTS)

Conditions like Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), which are common in hypermobility, cause physical symptoms that mimic anxiety such as rapid heartbeat, dizziness, and breathlessness - leading to confusion and misdiagnosis.

💥 Chronic Pain and Exhaustion

Ongoing pain, fatigue and limitations can understandably lead to low mood, frustration, isolation and eventually depression. Your child may feel like they’re falling behind or missing out on typical experiences.

🗣️ Feeling Dismissed or Misunderstood

Many hypermobile young people are told they’re “just anxious” or “imagining it.” Over time, this invalidation can lead to feelings of helplessness, self-doubt and loneliness.

Signs of Anxiety & Depression in Hypermobile Teens and Young Adults

You know your child best - but some signs may be subtle or easy to overlook. Here’s what to watch for:

✅ Emotional signs:

Increased irritability or mood swings
Withdrawal from friends or hobbies
Avoidance of new or unfamiliar situations
Tearfulness or frequent emotional overwhelm

✅ Physical signs (often mistaken for medical symptoms):

Trouble sleeping or excessive sleeping
Fatigue that worsens with stress
Changes in appetite
Increased pain during anxious or emotional times

✅ Behavioural signs:

Avoiding school, social events or conversations
Becoming overly reliant on routines or control
Saying things like “What’s the point?” or “No one gets it”

Supporting Your Child’s Feelings of Anxiety & Depression With Hypermobility

1. Validate Their Experience (even if you don’t understand it)

One of the most powerful things you can do is simply say:

“I believe you.”
“You’re not overreacting - your feelings are valid.”
“This sounds really hard. How can I help?”

Avoid minimising their pain or stress. What seems like a “small” challenge to you may feel huge to them, especially when they’re managing multiple symptoms at once.

2. Support Mental Health Care That Understands Chronic Conditions

Not all therapists understand hypermobility or chronic illness. Help your child find someone who does.

✅ Look for:

Therapists experienced in chronic pain or invisible illnesses
Providers offering CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) or ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) for chronic conditions
Counsellors available through school, university or online platforms

💡 Tip: Don’t wait for a crisis. Even just a few sessions can give your child valuable coping tools.

3. Help Them Rebuild a Sense of Control

Feeling powerless is a huge contributor to anxiety and depression. Support your child in building a life where they feel capable and confident, even if their symptoms are unpredictable.

✅ Encourage them to:

Set small, achievable goals
Explore hobbies that bring joy without worsening symptoms
Make decisions about their own care (with your guidance as needed)

💡 Tip: Ask, “What’s one thing today that would help you feel a bit more in control?”

4. Balance Support With Independence

It’s tempting to step in and “fix” everything when your child is struggling - but building emotional resilience comes from learning how to cope with challenges, not avoid them.

✅ Offer support like: