The Emotional Rollercoaster of Parkinson's Disease

Parkinson’s Disease is not limited to difficulties with movement. It can actually affect patients in an emotional way, and the changes in emotions can be harder to deal with than the changes in movement. Some of the psychological changes that may occur with Parkinson's disease are anxiety, depression, stress, and indifference.

Psychological changes do not just affect the patient, they can also affect their family and friends. It's important for both patients and caregivers to further understand these emotional changes in order to manage them effectively.

Feelings of anxiety and depression

At some point in their condition, most people with Parkinson’s will feel anxious and/or depressed. These devastating feelings can come from the diagnosis of Parkinson’s and a lack of independence and mobility. Because there are chemical changes happening in the brain, it can be a direct symptom of Parkinson’s. These feeling can often fluctuate within the day, and can depend on the medication that the patient is taking

The diagnosis is difficult for Parkinson’s because the symptoms of depression and Parkinson’s can be confusing. Still, the most important thing is to identify and treat mental health problems as quickly as possible. If anxiety and depression are managed carefully and promptly, the symptoms of Parkinson’s can be treated.

When people feel anxious, it means they feel nervous, scared, or uncomfortable. Fast heartbeat, perspiration, or feeling out of breath are just some of the ways patients respond when anxious. Anxiety goes away when there is a change in the situation. In addition, adapting to the situation or being able to escape from it makes that anxious feeling disappear. However, some people feel it for too long, without any rational reason. This can cause people to have a difficult life and hinder them from doing the things they want.

Depression goes beyond the feeling of sadness. This strong feeling may last for weeks, months, and even year, for reasons that are unclear. When it is something more serious, it can gravely affect the physical and mental well-being of a patient. This can be categorized into low, moderate, and severe.

Helpful tips for anxiety and depression

• Consultation with a Doctor: A doctor or specialist can suggest changes in lifestyle, a referral to a psychologist, or medications to treat anxiety and depression. It all depends on the needs of the patient and the severity of the condition.

• Seeking Support: Family, friends, and professionals can give help to people who feel anxious and depressed. There are many hotlines and centers that give this kind of help to those in need.

• Taking Care of Oneself: People often turn to eating unhealthy comfort food and lying in bed all day when they feel sad. These will not help in easing the negative feeling. In order to have a positive mind and a healthy body, they should exercise and follow a healthy diet.

For more tips to help with a patient's anxiety and depression, and to learn more about the different psychological changes involved with Parkinson's disease, read on.