Depression in People with Parkinson’s Disease

By Dr Mizrab Khan MRCPsych Member of the Royal College of Psychiatrists, United Kingdom

Arshya Vahabzadeh, M.D. Resident Psychiatrist, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine Follow @VahabzadehMD

Since April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month, we wanted to discuss its connection to clinical depression.

Parkinson’s and Mental Health

Parkinson’s disease is a chronic and progressive neuropsychiatric condition that affects more than one million Americans, with over 60,000 people being diagnosed every year. People with Parkinson’s often develop physical symptoms such as tremors at rest, stiffness, and a general slowing of movement.

Today, there’s a better understanding of the psychiatric and mental health concerns of people with Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s disease affects several parts of the brain connected to control of mood. This may cause depression and other mental illnesses that harm the quality of life of people with Parkinson’s disease.

Depression in People with Parkinson’s

People with Parkinson’s disease often suffer from clinical depression (more than one third of individuals). Depressive symptoms include apathy as well as changes in sleep, appetite, and self-esteem. It’s far more than feeling sad or “blue” after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s. Studies show that clinical depression may even come before the development of physical symptoms of Parkinson’s. Becoming depressed is also thought to be independent of the physical symptoms, with some people with mild Parkinson’s developing severe mood symptoms. Detecting the depression may be more difficult in Parkinson’s disease because there’s an overlap between the signs of depression and the physical symptoms of Parkinson’s.

If someone with Parkinson’s disease is increasingly apathetic with changes in mood, sleep, appetite, or low self-esteem, then he or she should see a doctor for a psychiatric assessment. People with Parkinson’s are at a higher risk of suicidal thoughts and actions, so it’s important to pay close attention to these warning signs and seek a mental health evaluation.

Can Depression in Parkinson’s Disease be Treated?

Yes, just as depression can be treated for those without Parkinson’s, depression in people with Parkinson’s disease can be improved using both psychological and medication treatments. However, a personalized treatment plan should be created, and any antidepressant medication should be prescribed by a physician who is aware of the other medications that are commonly used in Parkinson’s disease. Ongoing research will help determine the best method to treat this depression.  

Tweet