Depression and Parkinson's

Depression in Parkinson's disease is a mental and physiological condition, which has several factors; Today, it is common among doctors treating Parkinson's patients to see parkinsonian depression as a unique phenomenon, which overlaps with "normal" depression, but also has unique characteristics. For example, it is not acceptable to look at physical slowness and a decrease in facial expression in Parkinson's, as a feature of depression, but among people without Parkinson's they do see it as a depressive feature.

In order to correctly diagnose depression in Parkinson's, one must use a professional assessment by a doctor, neurologist or psychiatrist, or psychologist, who are knowledgeable in the mental and behavioral diagnosis of Parkinson's patients.

Fortunately, today there are effective treatments for the mood disorders of Parkinson's patients, and it is possible by using the correct medication balance to improve the patient's mental state and thus the physical state of the patient.
In addition to that and no less important, there are non-pharmacological or natural approaches to improving mood in Parkinson's. These include first and foremost aerobic physical activity (which also improves memory functions and renews the growth of some brain cells), as well as other approaches whose effectiveness is still being tested, such as omega 3, the hypericum plant, acupuncture, tai chi and more.

Equally important is the possibility of considering individual or group psychological therapy in order to deal with the mood, and to examine the patient's position regarding his condition. A large number of studies have shown that psychological treatment methods that try to re-examine the patient's beliefs and attitudes regarding his condition and focus on his daily behavior, can significantly improve his mental coping and mental well-being, sometimes for a longer term compared to antidepressant medication.


The first step in the treatment of depression includes a correct diagnosis by a doctor (neurologist or psychiatrist) skilled in the treatment of movement disorders. Following the recommendations of the attending physician, you can choose the additional treatment methods that are suitable for the individual case.

 

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