Up to 50% of people with Parkinson’s disease may experience depression, anxiety or apathy, however, only 2% receive referrals to mental health professionals. Prioritizing mental health is important for those with Parkinson’s disease, as it is not just simply a reaction to the diagnosis, but a part of the disease itself caused by changes in brain chemistry. Vikas Channin, who has Parkinson’s, found relief and a better understanding of his depression and apathy after he was diagnosed with the disease at age 45.
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive neurological disorder that affects movement and can lead to a variety of physical and cognitive symptoms. While tremors, stiffness, and difficulty with movement are often associated with Parkinson’s, many people with the disease also experience depression and anxiety early on. In fact, research shows that depression and anxiety are often … Read more