Kidney Stone Risk Linked to Depression

New study finds that people with kidney stones face higher rates of depression and increased mortality risks.

Updated on Oct. 24, 2026 in Mental Health

Bold flat-color editorial illustration showing a simplified kidney shape beside crystalline fragments, representing health research findings. — A new study indicates that patients with kidney stones experience elevated rates of depression, which is significantly associated with higher all-cause mortality risks. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Should mental health screenings be a standard part of treatment for chronic physical conditions?

Researchers have identified a significant association between moderate to severe depression and kidney stone formation. Those with the condition are nearly twice as likely to face all-cause mortality when depression is also present.

Why it matters

The findings suggest that the physical strain of managing kidney stones may be compounded by mental health challenges. This correlation could mean that depression interferes with the ability of patients to maintain vital dietary and medical therapies.

A study of 2,241 kidney stone formers compared to 20,810 controls revealed an adjusted odds ratio of 1.14 for depression. Women specifically showed a higher adjusted odds ratio of 1.32 for developing depression compared to those without the condition.

The players

ASN Kidney Week

This is a major annual scientific conference hosted by the American Society of Nephrology where researchers share breakthroughs in kidney-related medicine.

National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

This is a program of studies designed to assess the health and nutritional status of adults and children in the United States.

The details

Data from the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 helped researchers determine that those with both kidney stones and severe depression have an adjusted hazard ratio of 1.99 for all-cause mortality. This indicates that mental health is a critical variable in the long-term clinical prognosis for stone formers.

Study data was presented in Denver on October 24, 2026, at ASN Kidney Week.

Health Landscape

This research follows the established diagnostic framework of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 to quantify the intersection of mental health and chronic physical illness. It highlights a growing shift toward holistic care models that address psychiatric comorbidities in non-psychiatric disease states.

Patients diagnosed with kidney stones should discuss their mental health status with their physician, as depression may hinder adherence to necessary treatments. Recognizing these symptoms early could be essential for maintaining overall health and improving long-term outcomes.

The takeaway

The link between depression and kidney stone formation emphasizes that medical recovery is not just about physical health management. Patients and providers should consider mental health screenings as a standard component of care for those managing recurring kidney issues.