For those suffering from any one of the many neurological conditions that are prevalent today, the symptoms associated can make life more difficult. For those experiencing anxiety and depression related to their neurological condition, leading a happy and productive life can be especially challenging. However, there are also many ways to cope with depression, returning a sense of peace and well-being to life and making the management of neurological conditions a bit easier along the way.
The Statistics
Depression and anxiety rank among the most common mental conditions and affect people from all walks of life. In fact, according to the World Health Organization, more than 300 million people around the world suffer from depression. In the U.S. alone, roughly 7 percent, or more than 17 million adults, experience depression. Half of those people also experience anxiety disorders. For people who have a neurological disease, the statistics are even higher. One study suggests that one out of every three patients who develop stroke, epilepsy, migraine or Parkinson’t disease will develop depression. Some medications that are prescribed for neurological disorders also come with the risk of developing depression. Additionally, there is also some belief that depression increases the risks of developing a neurological condition.
“Not only are people with some of the major neurologic conditions more likely to develop depression, but a history of depression is associated with a higher risk of developing several of the neurologic conditions, such as epilepsy, migraine, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and dementia,” says Dr. Kanner, M.D. and professor of Clinical Neurology at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.
Treatment
With depression and anxiety being such a common concern for those with neurological conditions, it is no surprise that the demand for ways to manage depression is high. Often undiagnosed, the first step in getting help is identifying when a person is experiencing depression or anxiety. Online tools offer ways to detect depression, but a trip to the doctor for an open discussion is the best option for most. Once the patient is ready to tackle their depression, there are many safe ways to deal with the symptoms that do not rely on drug therapies. Some of those include talk therapy, mind-body practices and exercise. Alternately, non-invasive and drug-free treatments such as light therapy may also help. If more in-depth treatment is required, reach out to your physician for additional help.
If you or someone you love is suffering from depression, anxiety or other unmanaged symptoms associated with a neurological disorder, Chiropractic Neurology can help. Contact the team at Georgia Chiropractic Neurology Center for your consultation.