Symptoms of depression are common with chronic illnesses, especially neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s and Lew Body disease, vascular dementia, frontotemporal dementia and others. Some individuals will exhibit symptoms early on, which may be associated with a higher risk for developing the disorder, and some will express depressive symptoms later in the course of illness.
Brain, Mind, Behavior and Mood
According to research, depressive symptoms play a significant role in neurological disorders, especially in neurodegenerative diseases. This is true because of the connection between the physical brain, the mind, behavior and mood. For some individuals, depressive symptoms may occur very early in the development of the disorder without any clear presence of cognitive decline.
Bad News. Good News.
Depression presents a challenge when it occurs with neurodegenerative disorders. It can create a negative impact on the individual’s quality of life and lead to stress and burnout of caregivers, both formal and informal. Depression is also associated with decreased functions and cognitive abilities. The good news is that depression is treatable and early detection can lead to the start of appropriate treatment. It may improve perceived health status and the well-being of the individual and caregivers.
Diagnostic Difficulty
Depression may be challenging to diagnose when it occurs with neurological disorders, and especially the neurodegenerative disorders. Symptoms of depression can be mistaken for cognitive decline. Individuals who have such disorders may find it difficult to communicate symptoms accurately. They might be unable to distinguish among feelings like anxiety, panic, lack of concentration, motor disturbances, and indecisiveness.
The Clinical Picture Gets Muddier
Biological symptoms of depression such as weight loss or sleep disturbance may be a part of the clinical picture with or without any disturbance in mood. Some individuals develop apathy, which is commonly mistaken as anhedonia, which is a marked decrease in interest or pleasure in things once enjoyed. Language problems can also make diagnosing depression difficult as can pseudobulbar palsy, or pathological crying or emotional instability.
Final Thoughts on Depression and Neurodegenerative Disorders
Depression is common among people who don’t have neurological disorders whatsoever. It is also common among those who do, and especially neurodegenerative disorders that are increasing due to the aging of the United States population. While it is challenging to sift through clinical symptoms of these conditions and conclude that a true depression is present, it is very important to catch it as early as possible. Only then, can decisions be made about treatments, therapies and improving quality of life.