Depression Can Hamper Recovery After a Stroke

Depression after a stroke is common. In fact, up to one in three people who have suffered a stroke experience some degree of depression. This isn't surprising since recovery after stroke brings some unique challenges. Some patients have to learn to walk and talk again, and they face an uncertain future. According to a new study, treating depression after a stroke is important not only for lifting the spirits of a stroke victim - but for their recovery.

Stroke and Depression: Recovery After Stroke is Better When Depression is Treated

In a study published in the journal Neurology, researchers looked at whether treating depression in stroke patients had an effect on their overall prognosis. They discovered that stroke patients who had symptoms of depression for three months or more after a stroke were less likely to recover enough to do functional tasks and carry out activities of daily living such as feeding themselves. Thus, treating people with depression after a stroke should be a priority since it can affect their physical recovery - and their ability to take care of themselves.

No one knows exactly why depression is so common after stroke, whether it's due to the psychological trauma of dealing with the stroke, or whether it's more related to stroke-related changes in brain chemicals. It may be a combination of both.

Dealing with Depression after a Stroke

It's not surprising that depression after a stroke hampers a person's ability to recover. Most stroke patients enter physical and occupational therapy to recover lost function - and learn how to live independently again. If they're depressed, they won't be as motivated to work hard towards regaining their functional skills. Depression can go on for years after a stroke, causing a stroke victim to make less of a recovery than they could have.

Stroke and Depression: The Bottom Line?

It's important to recognize and treat depression since it can have an impact on a stroke patient's future. Sometimes the support of friends and family can lift a stroke patient's depression, while others may benefit from joining a support group.

Since stroke may impact brain biochemicals that have an impact on mood, some can benefit from a short course of antidepressants along with counseling. The worst thing a family can do is ignore the depression, assuming that it's natural to be depressed after a stroke. Get help for a depressed stroke patient early. It could aid their recovery in a positive way.

References:

Eurekalert.org. "Managing Post-Stroke Depression Improves Physical Functioning"

Merck Manual. Eighteenth edition. 2006.