Depression in PD
Depression is a very common non-motor symptom of Parkinson's Disease (PD) that may intensify other symptoms. Depression may be due to changes in areas of the brain that regulate mood, energy, motivation, appetite and sleep. This symptom may occur long before motor symptoms of PD. Depression is often overlooked and undertreated. Here are some resources to help understand depression, when to get screened, and how to manage it.
Note: If you are in crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or visit www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org.
Short Overviews of Depression
Combatting Depression and Parkinson’s Disease
Published by Parkinson’s Foundation, 2019
This two-page fact sheet distinguishes between sadness and depression, lists 10 signs of depression in PD, and explains causes and treatment options of depression for those with PD. They should have annual screening for depression, discuss all mood changes with their healthcare team, and bring a family member to doctor appointments to discuss mood changes.
Depression and Parkinson's Disease
Published by American Parkinson Disease Association, 2022
This two-page fact sheet reviews the prevalence of depression among those with PD, symptoms of depression, and treatment options, including non-pharmacological, prescription, and electro-convulsive therapy. Finally, there is information about managing existing medications with depression and a reminder to also treat anxiety, which often coexists with depression in PD.
Depression
Published by Parkinson’s Foundation
This page outlines the psychological, biological and environmental factors that contribute to depression, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and tips for coping.
Helping Parkinson’s Patients with Depression
By James Beck, PhD. Published by Psychology Today, April 5, 2018
Due to changes that Parkinson’s causes in the chemistry of the brain, depression is a common side effect. Even though at least half of those with PD suffer with depression, most go undiagnosed or are under-treated. This short article explains the physiological and psychological factors that contribute to depression, the most common symptoms and numerous treatment options.
Depression and Anxiety
Depression and Anxiety in Parkinson’s Disease
By The Michael J. Fox Foundation
This four-minute Ask the MD video from 2017 is a summary of depression and anxiety symptoms in Parkinson’s disease by Dr. Rachel Dolhun. She packs a lot of information into such a short time, explaining precisely how both can be managed with medication, talk therapy and/or behavioral strategies, such as regular exercise and social activities.
This related webpage notes that depression and anxiety are common in Parkinson’s, affect quality of life and treatment response, and can be managed through support, therapy, and medication.
Depression, Anxiety and Apathy in Parkinson’s Disease: Essential Facts for Patients
Published by International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society (MDS), 2018
This one-page fact sheet briefly explains how and why PD affects mood, including depression, anxiety and apathy. It talks about how to identify mood symptoms and how they are diagnosed and treated.
Recognize Depression and Anxiety in Parkinson’s
By Kara Mayer Robinson. Medically Reviewed by Jabeen Begum, MD. Published by WebMD, September 18, 2024
This four-minute read covers what depression can look like, what anxiety can look like, how to find out if you have anxiety or depression, and treatment options for anxiety and depression, including alternative treatments and lifestyle changes.
In-depth Explorations of Depression and Mood Issues
Mood: A Mind Guide to Parkinson's Disease
Published by Parkinson’s Foundation, 2018
This digital book explains how Parkinson’s can affect mood and emotional health. It covers depression, anxiety, anger and apathy, including why they occur, how they differ, and what treatments are available. The guide has patient stories, care tips, and questions to discuss with your doctor. Available as an e-book, audiobook and Kindle download.
Mental Health and Parkinson's
By Parkinson Society British Columbia, March 30, 2021
In this one-hour talk, clinical counselor Courtney Doherty describes depression, anxiety, and apathy, all common changes in mood in Parkinson’s disease (PD). And she provides extensive information for how these changes can be treated, particularly in non-pharmacological ways.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Other Treatment
Depression and Anxiety in Parkinson’s Disease
By The Michael J. Fox Foundation, June 16, 2016
This one-hour audio with slides is an interview of a person with Parkinson’s disease, a psychiatrist, and a neuropsychiatrist. Panelists discuss the causes of depression and anxiety in Parkinson’s disease, the symptoms, and how to treat and manage this aspect of life with the disease.
Depression and PD: A Non-Drug Treatment Option
Published by Parkinson’s Foundation, 2019
This two-page fact sheet explains and recommends cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to manage Parkinson’s-related depression. Set goals for daily activities with a focus on exercise, socialization and positive emotional self care. Recognize negative thoughts and implement strategies to minimize them. Work with your care partner to reinforce positive behaviors and implement healthy habits.
How Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Can Help You Live Well with Parkinson's
By Roseanne D. Dobkin, PhD. Published by Davis Phinney Foundation, August 4, 2021
This article explains what cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is and some tools you can learn through CBT to cope with depression and anxiety symptoms of Parkinson's. It includes self-assessment questions to determine if your mood is as good as you would like it to be.
Thriving with PD
By PMD Alliance, August 23, 2021
In this 50-minute Wholistic episode, moderator Indu Subramanian talks with movement disorders and palliative care specialist, Dr. Janis Miyasaki, about the difference between depression and demoralization and how to meet the spiritual needs of people with Parkinson's.
Understanding the Emotionality of Parkinson's
By PMD Alliance, August 2, 2021
Movement disorders specialist Mindy Bixby speaks for about 35 minutes on the mechanisms that contribute to mood changes in PD, then answers questions. Her focus goes beyond anxiety and depression to include behavior changes. She offers both pharmaceutical and natural ways to counter these changes.
Self-Evaluation
Depression and Parkinson's
Published by Parkinson's UK, December 2017
This 11-page information sheet provides a mini self-evaluation to help determine if diagnosis by a professional should be pursued for depressive symptoms. Several self-help steps are described.
Psilocybin
Psilocybin Therapy for Depression in PD
By PMD Alliance, August 23, 2021
In this one-hour talk, psychiatrist Ellen Bradley, MD, explains why psilocybin facilitates emotional focused therapy and shares the outcomes of her research into the effect of oral psilocybin therapy on depression, anxiety, and motor symptoms on 12 people with Parkinson’s, in combination with talk therapy. Results were overwhelmingly positive, resulting in a larger, ongoing study.
En Español
La Depresión y la enfermedad de Parkinson
Publicado por American Parkinson Disease Association, 2022
Esta hoja informativa de dos páginas explica la depresión en el Parkinson, sus síntomas y tratamientos, incluyendo terapias no farmacológicas, medicamentos y terapia electroconvulsiva, y recuerda tratar también la ansiedad.
Last updated November 2025 by Stanford Parkinson's Community Outreach.