Depression

Depression is an illness that may be related to an imbalance of chemicals in the brain.

Depression affects males and females of all ages and ethnic backgrounds, and it can negatively impact an individual’s quality of life.

Symptoms of depression may include:

• Sadness
• Feelings of worthlessness
• Loss of interest/pleasure
• Changes in appetite/weight
• Sleeping too much or too little
• Thoughts of suicide

Researchers think that depression may be a symptom of PD, and that 40-50% of PD patients will suffer from depression during the course of their illness.

Unfortunately, depression in PD patients often goes unrecognized and may be under treated because the symptoms of depression and PD tend to look similar (lack of facial expression, slowed movement, stooped posture, changes in weight and sleep patterns, and decreased energy).

Depression is a treatable illness and there are options available to help PD patients who may be experiencing depressive symptoms. Possible treatments for depression include medications and counseling.

Updated 8/10/2004
Reviewed 6/4/2007