Mood changes

Anxiety 

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 is present throughout the ever-changing Parkinson’s journey, from pre-diagnosis stresses of the unknown and unexplained symptoms to the diagnosis stress and grief for the losses you experience in your mobility and independence.  

Depression 

Depression is not just a reaction to the diagnosis or the challenges of living with Parkinson’s, but a direct result of changes in brain chemicals that regulate mood, energy, motivation, appetite, and sleep. You may experience persistent feelings of sadness or a loss of interest in activities that used to bring you joy over a decade prior to any movement symptoms occurring.

Apathy  

Apathy is more than just feeling stressed or worried. Apathy is a common non-motor symptom of Parkinson’s, characterised by a lack of interest, enthusiasm, or motivation. Losing interest in new activities, lacking emotional response to situations, and difficulty initiating or completing tasks are common manifestations of apathy. Unlike depression, which involves feelings of sadness and guilt, apathy is an emotional flatness and a general disinterest in life. You may feel less inclined to exercise, follow medication schedules, or engage in social activities, which can worsen symptoms. Apathy in Parkinson’s can be challenging, but there are strategies to manage it. Stay engaged socially, exercise, and optimise medications and treatments.

Stress 

Stress is something that makes all of your Parkinson’s symptoms worse. Stress can exacerbate Parkinson’s symptoms, such as tremors, stiffness, and slowness of movement1. It can also worsen non-motor symptoms like anxiety, depression, and sleep problems. Long-term stress may accelerate the progression of Parkinson’s disease by increasing the degeneration of brain cells. Stress hormones can activate receptors in brain cells, potentially speeding up neuron death. Managing stress through relaxation techniques, mindfulness, exercise, and social support can help reduce its impact on Parkinson’s symptoms1. Some people may also benefit from medications to manage anxiety and stress.

Tools that encourage mental health 

• Apps that have affirmations, thought switching and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).  
• Websites have lots of information. Knowledge is power but be careful to seek out reputable sources.
• Exercise can help in many aspects of symptom management in Parkinson’s. Not only can it enhance your mood, it also helps with constipation and movement symptoms.
• Mindfulness exercises can help. 

Your care 

It’s important for people with Parkinson’s to find effective ways to manage stress to improve their overall quality of life. Maintain contact with your primary care providers like a GP or specialist Parkinson’s nurse to monitor your mental health, as well as seeing a psychologist and social worker to work through your life-changing diagnosis.  

How do I access mental health support?

Accessing mental health 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 to a psychologist and a mental health plan
• your state-based Parkinson’s organisation for advice on social workers to access
• private health to see what is covered in relation to mental health consultations and expense.