LucindaBedwell that's what i like about the MIT classes.They are self paced, learning just for the sake of learning. You can receive certificates for a nominal fee, the classes have no charge. They're nice to keep your mind occupied.

Suzette, Bob believes Parkinsonism can certainly affect a person’s mood, and it may happen for more than one reason or two.

First, there may be physical changes in the brain. Parkinson’s-related conditions can affect chemicals and brain networks involved in mood, motivation, sleep, and the ability to experience pleasure. Depression, anxiety, irritability, and apathy may therefore be symptoms of the illness—not simply someone “thinking negatively.” Apathy is also different from depression: a person may lose motivation without necessarily feeling sad.

Then there is the human side. Living with uncertain symptoms, changing abilities, appointments, medication schedules, fatigue, pain, falls, and concern about the future would place stress on anybody. That strain can reach the patient, spouse, partner, caregiver, and entire family.

Cold pizza may spoil Bob’s lunch,
and his favorite team losing may feel like a punch.
But Parkinsonism does not leave after the game;
it may return every morning and call out your name.

That does not mean every difficult day is depression. Mood may change with poor sleep, pain, exhaustion, isolation, medication side effects, or medication wearing off. Keeping notes about when the mood changes occur—and whether they follow medication times or worsening symptoms—may help the neurologist recognize a pattern.

The encouraging part is that mood problems can often be treated. A medication review, counseling, treatment for depression or anxiety, better sleep, safe exercise, enjoyable activities, support groups, time with other people, and honest family conversations may all help. What works will differ from one person to another.

Please tell your neurologist or primary-care doctor if sadness, anxiety, anger, apathy, or irritability is persistent or interfering with daily life. Sudden or major personality changes, hallucinations, or confusion deserve prompt medical attention.

And Bob says:

Some days bring sunshine; some days bring rain,
and Parkinsonism may add to the strain.
It rattles our plans and unsettles our crew,
affecting our loved ones and everything we do.

But a difficult mood does not make someone weak,
and nobody should feel ashamed when they speak.
The brain may need treatment; the heart may need care;
sometimes we need others to help carry our share.

Bob cannot promise each cloud will depart,
but hope can still live in a tired, troubled heart.
Talk with your doctor and those close to you—
because asking for help is a brave thing to do.

When Parkinsonism tries spoiling Bob’s day,
Bob may bend for a while—but won’t give it away.
He will rest, ask for help, and do what he can,
then search for one smile and continue the plan.

I understand, @A MyParkinsonsTeam Member.

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@A MyParkinsonsTeam Member I've lost the ability to focus that much anymore. I get enough challenge trying to remember to bring everything into the house after shopping. Maybe things will improve some day...maybe

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@A MyParkinsonsTeam Member, neuroscientificallychallenged.com also offers free coursesslll

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