World Retina Day, Sunday 27 Sept 2026:
For this World Retina Day, Retina International (RI) is highlighting an often-overlooked aspect of living with retinal disease: mental health and emotional well-being.
Our ongoing, patient-led mental health research is helping us to better understand the wider impact of retinal conditions on people’s lives. As we prepare to present our work at EURETINA, one of the largest and most prestigious retina meetings in the world, the emerging evidence reinforces what our community has been telling us for years: the impact of retinal disease extends far beyond vision, and mental health support needs to be part of care throughout the disease journey.
“For too long, the conversation around retinal disease has focused primarily on what happens to vision. Our community has consistently told us that the emotional and social impact can be just as significant. This World Retina Day, we want to make sure mental health is recognised as an essential part of the conversation.”
– Avril Daly, Chief Executive Officer, Retina International
The research has focused initially on inherited retinal degenerations, but the message is broader. People living with retinal conditions, across different diagnoses, stages of disease and life circumstances, can experience significant emotional and psychological challenges.
“The value of this research is in putting patient experience at the centre of the evidence. We are building a stronger understanding of the relationship between retinal disease, mental health and wellbeing, and looking at how this evidence can ultimately inform better research, clinical care and support.”
– Dr Nabin Paudel, Director of Research, Patient Evidence and Programmes, Retina International
RI is calling for mental health and wellbeing to be recognised as an integral part of retinal care – not an additional or optional consideration. This means listening to patients, measuring what matters to them, and ensuring appropriate support is available from diagnosis and throughout the disease journey, whether or not a treatment is available.
As we continue this work, we will share further findings with our community following publication and work with our members and partners to translate the evidence into meaningful action.
