Parkinson's Depression: Symptoms, Causes, and Effective Therapies

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a chronic and progressive brain disorder that affects muscle control, balance, and movement due to the degeneration of dopamine-producing neurons. It leads to motor symptoms like tremors, stiffness, and dysphagia, along with non-motor symptoms such as depression and anxiety.

Typically, Parkinson’s affects people over the age of 50. However, there are rare cases where even younger people are affected.

How to Recognize Depression and Anxiety in Parkinson’s Disease

Depression and anxiety are common yet often overlooked non-motor symptoms of PD. Patients with both conditions tend to experience greater motor impairment and emotional difficulties, which further reduce their quality of life.

Early Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease You Shouldn’t Ignore

Following are the symptoms of PD:

Tremors of the hands, arms, legs, jaw, and face
Numbness or weakness in the limbs
Impaired balance and coordination
Rigidity
Slurred speech
Spastic limb movements
Loss of bladder and bowel control
Depression and anxiety
Hypomimia or masked face
Micrographia or small handwriting
Dizzy spells
Stooped posture
Dragging of feet
Episodes of freezing of movement
Short stepping/shuffling gait
Slowing of movement (bradykinesia)
Dysphagia and drooling
Hypophonia or unusually soft voice
Loss of muscle control in one side of the body and then the other
Loss of control over movements like blinking or smiling

Signs of Depression in Parkinson’s Patients

Following are the symptoms of Depression:

Feeling anxious or empty
Feeling persistently sad
Feeling hopeless
Feeling guilty, worthless or helpless
Feeling restless or irritable
Feeling tired all the time
Lack of motivation
Insomnia or sleeping all the time
Overeating or loss of appetite
Suicidal tendencies
Digestive problems, headaches, cramps, aches and pains
Difficulty in concentrating, remembering details or making decisions
Loss of interest in activities that the individual once found enjoyable

How Parkinson’s Disease Contributes to Depression and Anxiety

Parkinson’s disease directly affects brain chemistry by reducing dopamine production. This deficiency not only impairs motor functions but also disrupts mood regulation, making depression and anxiety common in patients.

The relationship between Parkinson’s and depression is linked to the disease’s impact on dopamine, a neurotransmitter responsible for mood regulation. As dopamine levels decrease, both motor functions and mental health are compromised.

Brain Chemistry in Parkinson’s Disease – Parkinson’s disease alters brain chemistry, especially by reducing dopamine, which controls both movement and mood. This imbalance causes motor symptoms as well as emotional and cognitive difficulties, such as depression and anxiety.

What Causes Depression in Parkinson’s Disease?

Depression may be attributed to:

Family history
Childhood trauma
Drug abuse
Certain medical conditions
Neurological disorders such as –
Epilepsy
Migraine
Eating disorders
Parkinson’s Disease
Alzheimer’s Disease
Dementia
Mood disorders
Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
Psychotic disorders
Sleep disorders

You can read more about depression here.

Can Depression Be Prevented in Parkinson’s Patients?

While depression in Parkinson’s patients cannot always be entirely prevented, early intervention and proactive care can significantly reduce the risk and impact. Managing Parkinson’s symptoms, addressing emotional health, and creating a strong support system are key factors in minimizing the chances of depression.

Regular screenings at Plexus, personalized therapies, and lifestyle modifications such as exercise, social engagement, and mindfulness practices can also help manage stress and improve overall well-being, fostering a better quality of life for individuals living with Parkinson’s.

Best Therapies for Treating Depression in Parkinson’s

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
CBT helps patients identify and change negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with depression. It is particularly effective for addressing the cognitive distortions often experienced by those with Parkinson’s depression.

Psychotherapy
Individual or group therapy can provide a supportive environment for patients to express their feelings, share experiences, and learn coping strategies. Support groups can also foster a sense of community and reduce feelings of isolation.

Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques
Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and yoga, can help reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being. These techniques encourage patients to stay present and manage negative emotions.

Medication Management
Antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), may be prescribed to help manage symptoms of depression. Regular monitoring by a healthcare professional is essential to find the right medication and dosage.

Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapists can help patients engage in meaningful activities that promote a sense of purpose and accomplishment. This can be particularly beneficial in addressing the challenges of daily living that contribute to depression.

Exercise Therapy
Regular physical activity has been shown to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression. Tailored exercise programs, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, can enhance physical fitness and mental health.

Speech and Language Therapy
For patients experiencing communication difficulties, speech therapy can improve verbal expression and social interaction, thereby reducing frustration and enhancing social support, which can positively impact mood.

Supportive Counseling
Counseling that focuses on emotional support and coping strategies can help patients navigate the emotional challenges of living with Parkinson’s, providing tools to manage anxiety and depression effectively.

Art or Music Therapy
Creative therapies like art and music therapy allow patients to express their feelings non-verbally. These therapeutic approaches can provide emotional relief and improve overall mental health.

Neuromodulation Techniques
In some cases, neuromodulation treatments like Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) may be considered for severe cases of depression in Parkinson’s disease when other treatments have not been effective.

Being diagnosed with PD can be very stressful and upsetting. As a sense of despair sets in many patients, depression can also follow suit. While helping you manage your symptoms of PD, your doctor will also actively monitor your behavioural patterns for depression.

We urge you to reach out for help the moment you feel something’s not quite right. Depression is not the end of the road. It is merely a detour that can be managed. On your part, you must ensure you get adequate sleep, eat well-balanced meals, and follow an exercise routine. It’s the simple things that can help you fight depression.

How Plexus Treats Depression in Parkinson’s with a Holistic Approach

At Plexus’ Neuropsychiatric Care Clinic, Dr. Na’eem Sadiq and his team of experts offer a compassionate, holistic approach to managing depression in Parkinson’s. We understand the profound emotional impact of the condition, which is why our customized rehabilitation programs focus on both mental and physical well-being.

By integrating care from neurologists, psychologists, and therapists, we create personalized plans that help you rediscover purpose, improve mental resilience, and foster long-term emotional health, empowering you to live a fulfilling life despite the challenges.

Book an appointment with us today.

WhatsApp +91 89048 42087

Call +91 78159 64668 (Hyderabad) | +91 9355533404 (Bangalore)

FAQs

Is depression common in Parkinson’s disease patients?

Yes, depression is common in Parkinson’s patients, affecting up to 50% of individuals. The combination of neurological changes, lifestyle adjustments, and physical limitations can significantly impact emotional well-being.

Can depression worsen Parkinson’s symptoms?

Yes, depression can worsen Parkinson’s symptoms. It can lead to increased fatigue, lack of motivation, and a reduced ability to engage in physical activity, which in turn can exacerbate motor symptoms and impair daily functioning.

What are the best treatments for depression in Parkinson’s?

The best treatments for depression in Parkinson’s typically include a combination of medication (such as antidepressants), psychotherapy, and personalized rehabilitation programs that address both mental and physical health, promoting a more holistic approach to treatment.

How can caregivers support someone with Parkinson’s and depression?

Caregivers can support someone with Parkinson’s and depression by providing emotional support, ensuring regular physical activity, maintaining a structured routine, and encouraging social engagement, all while being patient and understanding of the challenges the individual faces.

When should someone with Parkinson’s seek help for depression?

Someone with Parkinson’s should seek help for depression when feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or withdrawal persist for more than a few weeks and begin to interfere with their ability to carry out daily tasks or enjoy life.

What is the last stage of Parkinson’s disease?

The last stage of Parkinson’s disease involves severe physical and cognitive impairment. In this stage, individuals may become bedridden, lose the ability to communicate effectively, and require full-time assistance for all activities of daily living.