What are the challenges to diagnosing depression in people with Parkinson’s disease?

What are the challenges to diagnosing depression in people with Parkinson’s disease?

It can be difficult to tell whether a symptom is actually caused by depression or the physical effects of Parkinson’s disease. For example, Parkinson’s disease causes muscle weakness, with symptoms that may seem like depression:

• Downcast eyes.
• Flat expression.
• Lack of visible emotions.
• Slow speech.

Parkinson’s can also cause apathy, which can look like depression, with symptoms like:

• Loss of interest in previously enjoyable activities.
• Flat expression.
• Losing interest in eating or taking care of yourself.

Similarly, other symptoms can come from either Parkinson’s disease or depression:

• Fatigue or less energy.
• Low sexual function.
• Trouble sleeping.
• Weight loss.
• Memory loss.