How can I help Mom deal with the depression she's developed as a result of Parkinson's?
Parkinson’s disease affects multiple areas of the nervous system and results in a number of symptoms other than tremor and movement problems that are frequently seen. Depression and anxiety are very common in Parkinson’s and your mom is among over 40% of Parkinson’s patients in this regard. We know that this is not due just to the functional disability that comes along with the disease, but rather involves the effect of Parkinson’s on areas of the brain responsible for depression and anxiety. In dealing with depression in Parkinson’s disease, it is important to consider both medications and “talk” therapy. In terms of medications, I would encourage you to meet with her doctor to discuss the fact that this is very common in PD and often requires higher doses of the medications and sometimes requires trying out several different “anti-depressants” over time until one is found that works. At the same time, it would likely be helpful to have your mom meet with a counselor, psychologist or preferably someone who specializes in “cognitive-behavioral therapy.” The National Parkinson Foundation has a handout on “mind, mood and memory” that you might find helpful that can be found here National Parkinson Foundation
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