Are there links between Parkinson’s and Depression?
Many people are aware that Parkinson’s disease is classified as a movement disorder with tremors and slowness of movement.¹ In recent years the non-motor symptoms, including changes in mood, have been acknowledged as components of the disease which affects their quality of life.
One of the most common non-motor symptoms of Parkinson’s disease is Depression.²
Depressive disorders can happen at any stage of Parkinson’s and have been known to predate the onset of movement symptoms.³
Some studies suggest that depression and its treatment influence the course of motor symptoms which explains why on average depression is clinically diagnosed 4 - 6 years earlier.⁴
Due to the nature of depression in PD patients, it often tends to be unrecognized and often undertreated.⁵ Approximately 50% of PD patients will develop depression.
The reason for this is the underlying pathophysiology of depression in PD is complicated and many studies have been conducted to know the exact cause.
Through research we know that PD affects the production of dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin in specific parts of the brain.⁶ All of these chemicals play a role in mood and therefore low levels can potentially lead to Depression.
Symptoms of Depression
Depression is a common and serious mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, hopelessness, and a loss of interest or pleasure.
Some symptoms to watch for are:
• Ongoing sadness (over 2 weeks)
• Feeling hopeless
• Not enjoying once pleasurable activities
• Finding it difficult to get up in the morning
• Eating too much or too little
• Lack of energy
Depression affects how a person thinks, feels, and behaves, and can interfere with daily functioning.
Treatment
There are varied treatment options for depression in Parkinson’s patients. From medications to therapies depending on the needs and response of the individuals in question.
Some treatment options are:
• Antidepressants
• Supplements
• Cerenovex
• Psychotherapy
• Programmed activities
• Exercise
• Socialization activities
• Good sleep habits and balanced diet⁷
Overall Depression and Parkinson’s disease diagnosis seems to go hand in hand as the brain chemistry changes over time. Early recognition and a comprehensive care approach can greatly improve mental and emotional well-being in people living with Parkinson’s disease.
While there is no cure for Parkinson's, steps can be taken to improve quality of life through a holistic care approach - medications, supplements, therapy, support groups and staying active both combats the motor and non motor symptoms.
Supplements like Cerenovex, clinically tested in Phase III trials as a neurobiotic for individuals with Parkinson’s disease, have shown significant reductions in symptoms. In addition to its benefits for motor symptoms, Cerenovex has also demonstrated a strong positive impact on depression. Our neurobiotic targets the gut microbiota to help reduce systemic and chronic inflammation. Research increasingly shows that in individuals with depression, alterations in the gut microbiota can significantly influence psychological symptoms.⁸
References:
2. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S014976342200238X
3. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4878671/
4. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319831#brain-chemistry
5. https://www.parkinson.org/understanding-parkinsons/non-movement-symptoms/depression
6. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/319831#brain-chemistry
