Post stroke depression is a common complication of stroke observed in around a third of patients, where people experience mood disturbances, including depression in the wake of a stroke. The mechanisms behind this phenomenon are not well understood, but because it is very common, doctors are usually on the alert for it so they can provide adequate treatment to patients with post stroke depression. Family members and friends should also be aware of the risk of mood disturbances after stroke. In addition to depression, people can develop mania and other issues.
Some care providers theorize that post stroke depression is caused by functional changes in the brain, a known occurrence with stroke. According to this theory, people become depressed because their brains are working differently, and the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain is disrupted. Other people believe this complication of stroke is a result of stress after stroke and it may be compounded by unhappiness about limited mobility or distress caused by negative interactions with people who make fun of stroke victims or who are disparaging about the chance of recovery.
The intensity of post stroke depression varies considerably. Some patients experience mild depression and recover as they work through stroke rehabilitation. Other patients start out with stable moods and develop depression, sometimes experiencing a deep depression. Some patients develop major depression. A psychiatric professional can evaluate the patient to learn more about what is happening and to determine how intense the patient's mood disorder is.
Sometimes, simple talk therapy helps a patient with post stroke depression. Patients may find that it helps to stay busy, to interact with friends, and to engage in a variety of activities after a stroke. Regular visits from friends and family may be beneficial, and options like working with a therapy animal, massage, and so forth are also available. For some patients, medications may be necessary to treat the depression, with the doses being adjusted as the patient responds.
Studies on post stroke depression show that it is not something patients can “snap out of” if they are given enough pep talks by the people around them during recovery. Instead, they need to be supported through the depressive episode without being shamed for their lack of energy and pessimistic outlook. If a patient appears to be a danger to himself or others, more aggressive treatment options may need to be pursued for safety.
