Parkinson’s disease is often thought of as a physical disease. In advanced cases it is not difficult to observe the tremors, tics, stiffness and mobility problems that are characteristic of the disease. Yet there is also a strong link between mental health and Parkinson’s disease, with dementia often taking hold during the disease’s later stages. A more prominent Parkinson’s related mental health issue is depression. Parkinson’s literature suggests that as many as half of people with Parkinson’s disease also suffer from depression.
Depression is a serious condition that has the potential to interfere with daily functioning, and in severe cases, can even lead to isolation, self-mutilation or even suicide. While it can be triggered by stressful events, prolonged environmental or social circumstances, or even from medication, depression is caused by abnormal brain function of which the cause is unknown.
In addition to the classic signs of depression that include unsociability, isolation, moodiness, decreased hygiene or care for personal appearance, or low self-esteem, Parkinson’s patients may exhibit different signs of...