•Dr Priscilia Imade
The focus in this month of June has been on the relationship between eye and mental health. A healthy mind and eyes is our rounding up topic.
Your eyes are more than just a sensory organ, they are the gateway to your experiences, emotions, work, relationships and independence. Yet, many people do not pay attention to their eye health until something goes wrong.
In today’s fast-paced, screen-dominated world, prioritising healthy eyes is not just about clear vision, it is also about protecting your mental well-being.
WHY EYE-HEALTH AND MENTAL HEALTH ARE CONNECTED
Good vision enhances how you interact with the world, perform your tasks and maintain your independence. But when your vision is impaired, even slightly, it can lead to:
• Fatigue and poor concentration
• Depression and anxiety, especially in the elderly or those with progressive vision loss
• Social withdrawal and low self-esteem
• Increased risk of accidents, stress and cognitive decline
Many cases of visual impairment like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy and digital eye strain are preventable or manageable when caught early.
HABITS THAT PROMOTE HEALTHIER EYES AND A HEALTHIER MIND
1. Get Regular Eye Examination
Annual checkups can detect silent threats to vision before symptoms arise reducing anxiety and preserving quality of life.
2. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule
Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This reduces visual fatigue, tension and screen-related stress.
3. Protect from UV & Blue Light
Wear sunglasses outdoors and use blue-light filters during screen time. These help reduce glare, eye strain and the sleep disruption that can affect mood.
4. Eat for Eye and Brain Health
Vitamins A, C, E, Omega-3s, and lutein-rich foods like carrots, spinach and fish support both retinal health and brain function.
5. Stay Hydrated
Dry, uncomfortable eyes can trigger irritability. Drinking water helps maintain emotional and visual balance.
6. Avoid Harmful Eye Practices
Unhygienic habits and over-the-counter eye medications can cause infections and discomfort which in turn elevate stress and anxiety.
7. Know Your Family History
Conditions like glaucoma and macular degeneration may run in families. Being aware reduces fear and prepares you for proactive care.
WARNING SIGNS
Seek professional care if you experience:
• Blurry or double vision
• Headaches after screen use
• Light sensitivity
• Eye pain or redness
• Frequent tearing or dryness
• Trouble reading, focusing, or concentrating
These symptoms may not only affect vision but also your ability to stay productive, confident, and emotionally well.
ROLE OF SCREEN INDUCED STRESS
With average screen time rising above 6 hours daily in Nigeria, especially among young adults, Digital Eye Strain (DES) is becoming a silent trigger for both eye discomfort and mental fatigue. Left unchecked, DES can lead to chronic dry eyes, irritability, sleep disruption and increased risk of avoidable vision loss.
The Takeaway: Care for Your Eyes, Care for Your Mind.
Finally, you only have two eyes and they impact how you live, think, feel and function. Do not wait until your vision suffers before taking action.
Protect your eyes now and preserve your peace of mind.
*Dr Priscilia Imade is CEO, Modern Eye Clinic, Lagos. E-mail: moderneyecliniclagos@gmail.com
Another edition of the column returns on Monday in The Frontier.
