Symptom 13: Mood Changes – Depression and Anxiety in Parkinson’s Disease
Parkinson’s disease is not just a physical condition; it also significantly impacts an individual’s emotional well-being. Mood changes, including depression and anxiety, are common non-motor symptoms in Parkinson’s disease, often profoundly affecting a person’s quality of life.
Depression in Parkinson’s can present itself as persistent feelings of sadness, loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities, or an overall sense of hopelessness. It can significantly affect motivation, energy levels, and the enjoyment of life.
Anxiety, another common emotional symptom in Parkinson’s, can manifest as constant worry, restlessness, and feelings of panic. The unpredictability of Parkinson’s symptoms can often contribute to these feelings of anxiety, creating a cyclical pattern of worry and symptom exacerbation.
These mood changes are more than just a reaction to a Parkinson’s diagnosis. They are deeply intertwined with the physical changes happening in the brain. Despite the severity of these symptoms, they are often under-recognized and under-treated in the context of Parkinson’s disease. (13)
