Anxiety

Living with Parkinson’s, unexplained anxiety can be a frequent and challenging experience, often as debilitating as the motor symptoms of the condition. Anxiety is a common but often under-recognised non-motor symptom in Parkinson’s disease. It can manifest as generalised anxiety, panic attacks, or social phobia. One study found that up to 68% of people with Parkinson’s experience anxiety, and its severity is positively associated with motor symptom fluctuations, especially during “off” periods when medication wears off.

Anxiety can significantly affect how you see yourself, your body, and your role in social situations. It’s not just about feeling nervous; it’s about how it changes your daily life and interactions.

Anxiety often occurs alongside other Parkinson’s non-motor symptoms like depression and apathy. It’s important for doctors to regularly check for anxiety because it can be missed during routine consultations, especially if you’re not actively seeking help for it.

Some people with Parkinson’s may resist taking additional medication for anxiety or seeing a psychologist or psychiatrist because they feel their anxiety is just another part of Parkinson’s. However, understanding and treating anxiety involves looking beyond just the physical symptoms and considering the emotional and social impacts as well.

Coping strategies

People use different ways to manage anxiety, like mindfulness, exercise, or connecting with others who understand Parkinson’s. These methods can help change how you relate to anxious thoughts and feelings.

Effective treatment should consider both the brain and your personal experience of anxiety. This means not only using medication but also therapies that address the psychological and social aspects of anxiety.

It’s necessary to have open discussions with your care partner and care team to explore all possible ways to manage it effectively. Future research aims to better understand the connection between anxiety and Parkinson’s to improve treatment options.

Understanding the link between Parkinson’s and anxiety is key to improving mental wellbeing. Fortunately, anxiety in Parkinson’s is treatable. With the right combination of medication, physical activity, and psychological therapies, people with Parkinson’s can manage anxiety and improve their quality of life.

If you need urgent support, you are not alone, help is available.

• Lifeline – 13 11 14
• Medicare Mental Health – 1800 595 212
• Beyond Blue – 1300 22 4636
• Kids Helpline – 1800 55 1800
• 13YARN – 13 92 76

Further information about mental health support is available at Medicare Mental Health Centres. To locate other health advice visit healthdirect.gov.au.

In an emergency, always dial 000 (triple zero).

How do I access a mental health supports?

Accessing occupational therapy services can make a significant difference in managing the symptoms of Parkinson’s, improving quality of life and maintaining independence.

It’s advisable to explore all available pathways to find the support that best suits your individual needs. Look to:

• getting a GP referral and mental health plan
• Australian Association of Social Workers (AASW) find a social worker near you
• Australian Psychological Society (APS)  find a psychologist near you