The diagnosis of Parkinson’s usually affects a person’s mental health. How does it manifest?
What is it?
According to the definition of Parkinson’s is a progressive disease of the nervous system that affects movement with symptoms begin gradually. Sometimes it starts with a barely noticeable tremor in just one hand. Tremors are common, although the disease also often causes stiffness or decreased movement.
The complexity of identifying this disease associated with tremors that; However, 40% of those affected do not develop the diagnosis, which can be delayed from 5 to 10 years if the patient does not present the typical motor alterations, experts told EFE.
Relationship with mental health
Consulting with Catalina Botero, psychologist from Porque Quiero Be Bien, she expressed that Parkinson’s, as a neurodegenerative condition, that is, the cells of the central nervous system stop working or die and do not produce the sufficient amount of dopamine that the brain needs, begins to commonly affect the mobility capacity, as well as some social issues of the people who suffer from it; however; in addition to Their neurodegenerative conditions also have some symptoms that directly affect mental health.
The most common are the sleep disorders, apathy and this is partly due to the emotional burden felt when receiving the diagnosis of this disease, but also due to some changes in the structure of the brain and in some neurotransmitters that are affected by the disease as such.
In addition to anxiety and depression problems, Parkinson’s is also a type of dementia, so to the extent that it progresses and is not adequately managed, it can lead the person to present symptoms of this syndrome, it can also affect the memory and have other types of effects at the social and adjustment level of the person.
How to help?
The role of caregivers will always be vital in helping to regulate the emotions of people living with a disease and in the case of Parkinson’s there is no exception.
In answered some frequently asked questions with the help of specialists, Dr. Travis Turner, PhD, associate professor and director of the Division of Neuropsychology at the Medical University of South Carolina added that lMood swings are a common symptom of Parkinson’s and it is important to know where it goes from and to.. This can help the caregiver better understand what is causing their loved one’s mood change and how they can help manage it.
“The active listening skills They can be effective in reducing frustrations and mood swings because your loved one will feel understood. Examples of active listening include asking questions like: “I think (this) is what you’re saying.” If your loved one with Parkinson’s is struggling with mental health changes, ask yourself: has he or she been sleeping well? Have you been socializing?,” she added.
Two activities to alleviate mental health discomfort in Parkinson’s
The same site reports that the exercise and socialize They help combat the symptoms of Parkinson’s. In the first, it is important to establish a schedule and an activity that is to your liking and that you can use. In the second sharing with friends and family is a great way to help relieve depression, apathy and other mood swings. It is also advisable to get involved with a support group as a volunteer or participant.
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