3. Behavioral Changes – The Silent Herald of HAND
Moving beyond cognitive and motor domains, HAND also orchestrates significant behavioral changes. These alterations, though less tangible than the previous symptoms, can be just as debilitating, impacting an individual’s interpersonal relationships and quality of life.
Initially, the changes may seem minimal and may be wrongly attributed to stress or aging. You might notice the person becoming more irritable or less interested in activities they once enjoyed. Suddenly, the individual who was the life of the party may prefer solitude, withdrawing from social interactions.
As time progresses, these behavioral changes can become more pronounced. People living with HAND may display symptoms of apathy, showing little to no interest in the world around them.
They may appear emotionally blunted, showing reduced response to events that would typically provoke an emotional reaction. This shift can be challenging not only for the individuals themselves but also for their loved ones, who may struggle to understand and cope with these changes.
Depression and anxiety are also common companions of HAND. The individual may wrestle with feelings of hopelessness, pervasive sadness, or excessive worry.(3)
