Apathy is a very real and common experience with Parkinson's — about 40% of people living with the condition will experience it at some point. It can feel like emotional numbness, a loss of interest in things once enjoyed, or difficulty feeling joy or sadness.
As one MyParkinsonsTeam member described it: "It's like feeling Show Full Answer
Apathy is a very real and common experience with Parkinson's — about 40% of people living with the condition will experience it at some point. It can feel like emotional numbness, a loss of interest in things once enjoyed, or difficulty feeling joy or sadness.
As one MyParkinsonsTeam member described it: "It's like feeling numb. Little do I care if things go wrong. Likewise, I fail to muster happiness when wonderful things happen." Apathy in Parkinson's is thought to be linked to changes in the brain's reward centers. It can sometimes overlap with depression, though many people experience apathy without being depressed — so they're not always the same thing. There are several approaches that may help manage apathy:
- Dopamine agonist medication — some studies suggest this may reduce apathy
- Exercise — shown to help some people feel more motivated and engaged
- Mindfulness meditation — may help with emotional flatness
- Psychotherapy — particularly if apathy is connected to depression
- Antidepressant medication — if depression is also present
It's always worth bringing up apathy with a doctor, as adjusting or adding medication may make a meaningful difference.
August 23
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