Sara Whittingham MD
Based on a Facebook discussion initiated by Michael Quaglia
Parkinson’s disease is often thought of primarily as a movement disorder, but for many living with it, the emotional and mental health challenges can be just as, if not more, debilitating. Depression and anxiety are not just reactions to the disease—they are symptoms of it. Parkinson’s affects areas of the brain responsible for producing serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine—neurotransmitters critical for regulating mood, motivation, energy, appetite, and sleep. This biological impact can make it incredibly difficult to maintain emotional balance, even in the absence of external stressors.
For those without a strong support network—no close family, friends, or access to social media—the mental health toll can be even more severe. Isolation can deepen depressive symptoms, making it harder for individuals to seek help or even recognize that what they’re experiencing is a medical issue, not a personal failure. In many parts of the world, limited access to treatment, counseling, or community programs compounds the problem, leaving individuals to suffer alone in silence.
Stigma around mental health still persists, which often discourages people from discussing their symptoms or seeking treatment. Unlike other medical conditions that often elicit empathy and support, mental health issues can lead to further isolation. Yet there are effective treatments available, including medications such as SSRIs or dopamine-targeting antidepressants, and therapeutic options like counseling, cognitive behavioral therapy, and exercise—all of which can help improve mood and well-being.
One of the most meaningful forms of support comes from peer connection. Simply knowing others who understand the emotional complexities of Parkinson’s can make a tremendous difference. As the Parkinson’s community continues to grow, so must our efforts to reach those who feel invisible. Whether through local outreach, online forums, or building buddy systems, we must ensure that no one with Parkinson’s feels like they have to navigate this disease alone.
Mental health is an essential part of Parkinson’s care. By raising awareness, challenging stigma, and expanding access to resources, we can foster a culture where emotional well-being is prioritized, and every individual knows they have support—even on their darkest days.
Please connect with others and continue this discussion in the Prize Fighter’s Forum section on Mental Health, under the non-motor symptoms section.
