I was so sad and depressed after my stroke. What just hit me? Why me? It felt like the world had stopped and I was a casualty in a war that I didn’t even see coming. It was unfair and I was angry. I became deeply depressed – I just wanted to die. Fortunately, depression can be treated. It took all my faith, support from friends and professional assistance to help pull me out of the dark abyss I had fallen into. Little-by- little I began to see glimpses of hope shining through the curtains I had shut on life. There was life after stroke, and more. This was a challenge – a mountain to climb. A big challenge, but why not scale it? I knew all about challenges. I was a hard worker professionally, a student of life – I was athletic and loved competition. So, for me, I viewed my stroke as a fight against the enemy of life, and I wasn’t going to let him beat me. Pray my friends, ask God for help, reach out to others for assistance, talk about it, otherwise it could adversely effect your recovery and then the “enemy” wins. We don’t want that. God has a special plan for your life. Believe. You are more than a conqueror!
Post-stroke depression (PSD) is considered the most common neuropsychiatric consequence of stroke. Approximately one-third of stroke survivors experience major depression. Moreover this condition can have an adverse effect on cognitive function, functional recovery and survival.
For additional resources on Depression after stroke, please download the comprehensive handout from The Ohio State University Medical Center.
The American Stroke Association reports that about 40 to 50 percent of stroke survivors experience depression, which can occur soon after the stroke or several months later. So whether it’s in response to what you have lost or as a result of brain injury, your depression should be treated.
