MENTAL HEALTH CARE
not be as affected compared to those with Alzheimer’s. As a result, people may require specialist support to ensure their specific symptoms are well managed.
Medication has an impact Parkinson’s is primarily managed with medication which should be initially prescribed and regularly monitored by a specialist. There are a wide range of drugs used to maintain dopamine levels within the brain and it is vital that these are given on time to control symptoms effectively, but these may also affect mental health. Possible side effects include drowsiness, neuropsychiatric problems, and impulsive and compulsive behaviour.
This particular side-effect can lead to behaviours including addictive gambling, hypersexuality, obsessive shopping and binge eating. If not properly managed, these can have a devastating effect both on the person and those around them. It is important that if impulsive and compulsive behaviour is suspected medication is not suddenly stopped, but that the person works with their specialist to review their medication and find the routine that works best for them.
Living with a
long-term condition In addition to the condition’s process and the potential impact of treatment on mental health, there is the challenge that comes with living with a long-term condition like Parkinson’s which has no cure. It is a progressive condition which means that symptoms will deteriorate over time – although effective treatment can impact on the rate at which this occurs.
Parkinson’s can impact everyday life in many ways but the perception of others can make things worse. A survey commissioned by Parkinson’s UK in 2013 of people with Parkinson’s and their loved ones found that, 21% had their symptoms mistaken for drunkenness. In 2012, a man with Parkinson’s was actually arrested while watching an Olympic event as his lack of enjoyment – remember Parkinson’s can affect facial expressions – arose suspicion.
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Another 71% said their condition made them feel scared, uncomfortable or nervous in public. This lack of understanding makes it very easy for people with Parkinson’s to withdraw from activities, disengage from those around them and become further isolated.
“71% of people with Parkinson’s said their condition made them feel scared, uncomfortable or nervous in public.”
There are many reasons why Parkinson’s can lead to mental health problems, but these can be managed with the right help and support. At Parkinson’s UK, we believe that these issues need to be adequately managed and that people with Parkinson’s should be kept fully informed about all possible side effects of medication. We produce a range of information resources on all aspects of Parkinson’s (including a Caring for your resident with Parkinson’s booklet and Parkinson’s medicine management DVD specifically aimed at care home staff) and have a network of local groups so that people affected by Parkinson’s can connect with others.
You can also provide support by talking to your residents with Parkinson’s about mental health issues and enabling them to access the right treatment and support. A little understanding from you can go a long way in ensuring mental health doesn’t become the forgotten side of Parkinson’s.
The UK Parkinson’s Excellence Network is a key resource for the care home sector. To get involved, visit
www.parkinsons.org.uk/ excellencenetwork
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