Episode #20: Common signs of apathy and depression in Parkinson's patients

The Secret Life of PD: While Brian and I may be cheerful today, there were and still are those "darker days" with Parkinson's. Over 50% of PD patients deal with non-motor symptoms, including apathy (feeling joyless / emotionally flat); and depression (a shorter change in mood vs. a constant state of sadness). Make note of changes in your feelings and behavior. These symptoms are commonly overlooked and untreated.

[danacaro-herman]

As a nurse who's husband was recently diagnosed with Parkinson's, depression is not the word. Apathy and loss of interest due to neurophysiological changes that are happening in the brain is what the female podcaster was I belief speaking of. Im witnessing it now with my dearest husband, especially in the morning and in the evening

[bradkeough]

I have had PD for 16 yrs now and have Apathy, I find it hard because shrinks equate Apathy and depression as one. I am not depressed I just don't care. Things that use to bother me don't i.e. death of family members or trama I seen in the military (Thats is a blessing if you ask me hahaha.) The big thing with Apathy I just don't care about things like Christmas, going places like Disney or just have no desire to get up and leave the house. I will fake it when around people that don't know me.

[rolandmcteague]

Things I like about this channel on PD

- JK and BB are full/frank and open
- They are open and honest
- They get good PD topics and knowledgeable people
- They really listen and ask sensible questions

[kylebosley]

Hey Jess 👋

I have CD myself. Grandpa died from PD, so a huge advocate ! ❤

[elaineporter]

Good description of apathy definitely different from depression. My doc started me on Effexor and we’ve increased the dose in the hope that it will help with the apathy cause the depression has lifted

[anjafzal]

I just subscribed, I stumbled across this channel. My dad has PD, and I find your videos very helpful in understanding his condition.

[toryberch]

I have had apathy since 2006. It is for me a feeling like I'm just going through the motions each day. I lost the ability to cry as well. If someone is crying and sad in front of me
I have to tell myself to respond appropriately to show empathy because I want to, but it's like it's not there. It is awful for sure to not feel joy

[Ann-sfod]

Thank you for discussing this! This happens to me as well. Apathetic and depressed. But I hate to take more medicines.

[prakashpachhai]

Good programme l also. Pationtof Parkinson before tenyear

[auroramatera]

Hello Brian and Jessica. Thanks for the info. Would it be possible to do a video on work & disability? Thanks ❤

[auroramatera]

Hello Jessica and Brian, hope you’re having a good day. Would it be possible to do a video on how Parkinson meds could affect the dry mouth.
I’m experiencing dry mouth since last august and my doctor said that it’s my Parkinson’s meds causing this. Apo-levocarb 3%. Pramipexole 7% and clonozapam 10%

[charleslobaido]

Thanks Brian and Jessica for your insights ❤ Happy New Year ❤

[benjaminewering]

Hello
My father parkinson's was diagnosed fours years ago, he is 57 years old and according to doctors he has the physis of an 90 year old. He goes fishing, sitting in front of the PC or watching youtube, the other time he sleeps. It seems he is happy with his life right now. We playing cards, laughing a lot etc... Every clinic, doctors etc tell him that he should do his sport, excercises and so on but he wont do absolutely nothing against parkinson's, he even doesnt want to inform himself about the desease. I have no idea what I should do. When I talk to him, show empathy he literally doesnt say anything.

[toryberch]

Jessica and Brian, I recently was traumatized by the recent shooting in Tulsa Ok. Dr Phillips was my Ortho Doc and Amanda was my medical assistant team member for years. I am trying so hard to not let myself get into such a state of a painful flare
That's how my body reacts to bad news. Maybe one day you could do a video on trauma and how others cope with their emotions
You just can't explain to others who don't have Parkinson's what it's like and how it effects your system

[kevinsomers]

I was wondering if either of you have severe pain in your neck, face and shoulders. I have this super bad as well as headaches and I am in the process of trying to get a diagnosis. I definitely have the depression and apathy. I also have the crying spells for no reason.

[kitkat]

Hi, do you mind sharing your zoom exercise group info. What days do they meet?

[davedill]

A very old Joke
Question: What's the difference between ignorance and apathy?
Answer: I don't know and I don't care.

[tootalljones]

Hi! New to your channel. Wondering if you could visit the topic of dating w PD.
(i.e. how/when to approach the subject, etc...)

Love your channel btw ❤

[inezzbeadz]

I didn't no apathy was part of it n yes I really don't care to clean house. Retired n dx w PD, I had plans to travel saved my momey....I stay home don't even want people over

[alexsmurray]

I can't read my handwriting either! Lol