My PD Story

Pam Marcott Headshot
Researchers

Pam Marcott, MD, PhD

2025 Postdoctoral Fellowship

Reclaiming Restful Sleep by Unraveling How Parkinson’s Changes the Brain 

Along with the typical movement-related symptoms, many people with Parkinson’s disease (PD) also experience other non-movement health issues. These non-movement symptoms can be quite debilitating and sometimes more difficult to notice by care partners. 

One common non-movement PD symptom is difficulty sleeping, often in the form of waking up frequently throughout the night. Pamela Marcott, MD, PhD, a recipient of a Parkinson’s Foundation Postdoctoral Fellowship, is casting a spotlight on the sleep-associated circuits of the brain to understand how exactly PD impacts sleep patterns. By uncovering the mechanisms behind PD-related sleep problems, she hopes to help advance new therapies for such disturbances. 

While much of the neuroscience of sleep is still a mystery, researchers do know that staying asleep through the night requires a highly calibrated balance of different signals in the brain. These sleep signals are relayed through brain cells called neurons and can vary in frequency and intensity, depending on their purpose. If these signals become altered and imbalanced, sleep fragmentation occurs with "frequent changes between different sleep and wake states, leading to less consolidated and restful sleep,” said Dr. Marcott. 

Under the mentorship of Alexandra Nelson, MD, PhD, and Ying-Hui Fu, PhD, at the University of California, San Francisco, a Parkinson’s Foundation Center of Excellence, Dr. Marcott is investigating how PD changes the behavior of neurons in a specific sleep-regulating region of the brain called the pedunculopontine nucleus (PPN). PPN neurons act like telephone operators, relaying important signals across the brain. Using mice with and without PD-like symptoms, she will measure how the disease affects the ability of PPN neurons to transmit their important sleep signals. 

“Results of this study will improve our understanding of the circuit mechanisms that regulate sleep disturbances in PD, which will inform future therapeutic treatments.” - Dr. Marcott 

After learning more about how PD changes the sleep-related neurons’ signaling ability, Dr. Marcott will then monitor the brains of the mice as they sleep. She will keep a close eye on how the PPN neurons activate during sleep phase transitions, as she believes PD causes these neurons to be overactive and lead to fragmented sleep. Observing in real time how PD alters sleep regulation in the brain will provide a strong foundation for understanding how to treat this symptom and give restful nights back to people with PD. 

 “As a physician scientist in this space I am committed to making meaningful discoveries in the laboratory that will benefit my patients, and I am excited to have the opportunity to start this phase of my career with the support of the Parkinson's Foundation,” said Dr. Marcott. 

Meet more Parkinson’s researchers! Explore our My PD Stories featuring PD researchers. 

My PD Story

Alice Curry and her dog
People with PD

Alice Curry

I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) in October 2023, and so far, I’ve been able to manage independently. I’ve been able to do my activities of daily living independently. I manage my finances and do my own shopping. I use my computer and go on Zoom meetings. I have a dog, and the great thing about having a dog is it forces me to get out and walk, whether I want to or not. I get a little behind on mail since I was diagnosed, and my housekeeping is not the same as it used to be, but I get everything I need to done.

One of the first things I did when I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s was to call around looking for support groups. Through that process, I found the Parkinson’s Foundation. Their guides, such as the Hospital Safety Guide, have helped me tremendously. I have kept the resource books I’ve gotten from them and I still refer to them. They are reference books to me and are very valuable. The Parkinson’s Foundation Helpline is like a safety net for me, knowing if I have any questions I can call them.

I’m a member of the PD Solo Group, and I am on the PD Solo Group Steering Committee. PD Solo is a group for people who have Parkinson’s and live alone.

I think it is important for people to be aware that there are people who have Parkinson’s who choose to live alone, and are able to live alone.

Being part of PD Solo has been very helpful. We talk about living alone with Parkinson’s and as a member of the steering committee, we help determine what the agenda will be for each meeting and pick topics we think would be good to discuss.

The group does more than just that though. Two members came up with the ideas of having a show-and-tell so we could learn what people do besides coping with Parkinson’s. People shared their hobbies and what they do, including things such as photography and poetry — it was just wonderful.

I want to bring more awareness to this community of people who are living alone with Parkinson’s. I also want anyone who is new to Parkinson’s to know that they are not alone. There is a wealth of information out there, and I suggest they get in touch with the Parkinson’s Foundation.

I suggest finding ways to stay active, join a support group, try to find a neurologist who is a movement disorder specialist for your care. Take part in Parkinson’s activities near you such as Rock Steady Boxing and Dance for PD which provides Zoom classes.. These activities help physically, but I believe it really helps reduce stress levels as well. Most importantly, do not isolate. There’s a tendency to look for pity but being active will be so much better for you.

For more information on the PD Solo Network, visit Parkinson.org/PDSolo.

My PD Story

Smiling couple in jackets standing on a boat with a lake and trees in the background.
People with PD

Patricia Nuxoll

I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) in a strange way. I was at a pain clinic getting a steroid shot in my back when it was suggested that I should see a neurosurgeon. I agreed, so an appointment was made. When I met him, he kept looking at my hand. After a few minutes he stopped talking and said he wanted me to see a neurologist for an EMG (a diagnostic test that measures muscle response). Not being sure what that was I said OK, and another appointment was made. 

When the neurologist appointment came, I met her and before the EMG I was asked many questions and went through a series of tests. Not really knowing why, but knowing there must be a reason, I complied. Finally, I had the EMG, and then a cognitive test. 

She took very detailed notes the whole time and excused herself for a few minutes. When she came back, she said we had several things to talk about and proceeded to tell me that I had Parkinson’s.  

My reaction was what it might feel like if you were hit in the face with a football. I never saw it coming.

The neurologist was very kind and explained what led to the diagnosis. It turns out the neurosurgeon noticed my tremors and sent me to her thinking that she needed to look further. It took me two weeks to process this information. 

I was in complete denial but after that, I was able to take a physical therapy (PT) class designed for Parkinson’s called BIG movement. It has changed my life. It has been the best thing I could have ever done. 

My outlook is positive, I am boxing now, I walk confidently, my balance is better. I participated in my first research study, the Parkinson’s Foundation genetics study, PD GENEration, because this hits as close to home as you can get. I want to do whatever I can to help find a cure so that hopefully no one in my family or anyone else’s family ever has to go through this experience.

I wanted to participate in this study for a couple reasons. The first was for my family. I felt it was important to find out if I had a genetic link to PD they wanted to know about. Once I submitted my genetic sample, I asked each person in my family if they wanted the results and told them I would respect their answer with no judgement. The second reason was for myself because having Parkinson’s has opened my eyes to just how much I have never known or understood, and more information could only help me.

It felt great to participate in this study because I felt that I was being proactive. For me, anything that can help get answers is one step closer to hopefully finding a cure for this disease.

I will tell anyone who is newly diagnosed, don't feel bad if you get angry, or are in denial, that's a normal response. In my area there is a wonderful group that I connected with that we meet once a month and share news about research we have found, diet, PT, anything. It’s great because we all understand where we are coming from without having to explain. 

Parkinson's is hard but you don't have to travel that road alone even if you have family at home who help you.

Tips for Daily Living

Extreme Weather Emergency Preparedness

Extreme weather

Preparing for extreme weather is a burden for anyone in the path of a storm or fire. People with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and their caregivers should take these tips into consideration to ensure that all PD-related needs are accounted for when preparing for a hurricane or any other natural disaster:

  • Check all your medications. Take inventory of all medications and reorder any that are running low. 
  • Write your medication list down. Write down or print a list of all your medications (not just PD medications). Include medication name, strength, times taken and dosages. This customizable medication schedule can help.
  • Make a list of your doctors. Make a list of your doctors and their contact information and take it with you if you need to evacuate before a storm.
  • Water and food preparedness. Medications may need to be taken with a meal and usually water. Calculate five gallons of water per person per day. Buy enough water and food to last three to five days.
  • Order or print your Hospital Safety Guide in the event you need to educate an emergency responder or health care professional about your PD needs. Order one here.
  • Have your Medical Alert Card handy. Keep it with you at all times. Print one here.
  • Check in with your support network before and after. Arrange for at least one friend or family member to call you during a weather emergency, especially if you live alone.
  • Practice anxiety reduction techniques. The stress of possibly losing power or being evacuated could make anyone anxious, but stress can worsen PD symptoms. Download a meditation or breathing app or try to distract yourself by reading a book.
  • Know your nearest shelter. Visit the Red Cross website to find yours. Depending on where you live and your PD symptoms, you may qualify for a Medical Special Needs Shelter where you can get additional assistance with basic tasks. 

Preparing for power loss:

  • Avoid overheating. If you lose air conditioning, monitor your body heat. Drink more than the recommended nine to 13 cups of water per day. Exercise in the early morning or late afternoon when cooler outside. Know the signs of heat stroke: flushed face, high body temperature, headache, nausea, rapid pulse, dizziness and confusion. If heatstroke is suspected, go to your nearest emergency room or urgent care for treatment.
  • Address lightheadedness. Many people with Parkinson’s experience Neurogenic Orthostatic hypotension (nOH), characterized by a drop in blood pressure when going from a seated position or lying down to standing. Exposure to heat can make nOH worse. If you regularly or occasionally experience lightheadedness or dizziness when you stand up, take extra precaution if you lose power and air conditioning by staying hydrated and standing up slowly. 
  • Prepare your devices. If you have a deep brain stimulator (DBS), make sure your patient controller is charged. If you use a DUOPA pump, plan ahead to keep your DUOPA cassettes refrigerated. Call your doctor to ask if you should have extra oral medication on hand in case you are unable to use your pump at any point. 

Preparing for an evacuation:

  • Write and follow a packing list. Make sure to include all medications, water and snacks.
  • Know your community response plan. Learn about your area’s response and evacuation plans before a storm hits. Find your state’s emergency management agency here.
  • Take all your medications in their bottles with you. Try to keep them all in one travel bag.
  • Take your walker, cane or wheelchair, even if you only use it occasionally.  
  • Consider your devices. If you have a deep brain stimulator, remember to bring your patient controller. If your DBS neurostimulator is rechargeable, be sure that your recharger is fully charged and bring it along with the charging dock.

 

Download or order a Hospital Safety Guide today. Looking for more information about preparing for extreme weather with Parkinson's? Call our Helpline at 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636). 

My PD Story

Man in a suit smiling at the camera.
People with PD

Dr. Gregg Busch

Originally, a proud Appalachian from Elizabeth, WV, I was officially diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) in 2018 after more than a decade of fairly mild symptoms beginning with a slight tremor in my hand. Unfortunately, by 2018 my Parkinson’s was getting markedly and quickly worse. 

Fortunately, at this time, I lived in Tucson, AZ, which is home to world-class treatment for people with Parkinson’s. Over the years, I have learned much about living a fruitful, productive and happy life with Parkinson's while my disease continues to advance — natural behavior for the incurable, progressive, neurodegenerative disease of the brain and central nervous system. 

After more than 20 years, Parkinson’s had become a great challenge in executing the many aspects of my career as a college president, researcher and a national leader of higher education reform. I transitioned from academic leadership shifting my focus on a purpose-driven mission of helping make lives better for people with Parkinson’s and their care partners, educating and bringing awareness to others about Parkinson's, and advocating to members of Congress for the passage of National Plan to End Parkinson’s Act and other related bills. 

I have a doctorate and am a graduate of West Virginia University, School of Medicine and West Virginia University, College of Human Services and Education. I also attended, among other institutions, Marshall University, University of Louisville and West Virginia College of Graduate Studies.

I served 22 years as a medical examiner and 20 years in higher education, as a professor, dean, vice president, president, academic researcher, theorist, and author. 

After 18 years (13 without medication) living and challenging my Parkinson's journey each day, I accepted early retirement in 2023 concluding my career as a liaison for The White House Rural Stakeholders Initiative. 

I continue to volunteer, to the best of my ability, with Advanced Stage 5 Parkinson’s Disease and advocate for a range of bills, including bills to support the national Congressional education agenda, needs for American’s rural communities  and Appalachia, equity for women and girls in traditionally male dominated science careers, the rights of the LGBT and other marginalized communities, and issues surrounding Parkinson’s.

Unfortunately, I am too familiar with Parkinson's with my mother, five of her siblings, and her father all also having the disease.

Living well with Parkinson’s means continuing to volunteer, spending time with family and friends, and adapting to whatever challenges come my way. For me, living well meant to continue guiding and mentoring others to learn to live their Parkinson’s journey well too. It requires that we acknowledge that we have Parkinson’s without letting it have us. This belief is why I decided to serve in leadership and advocacy roles and leave my footprint stomping out the disease.

I became an Ambassador for the Parkinson's Foundation and the Davis Phinney Foundation for Parkinson's, and continue my advocacy before Congress and participate in research with the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson's Research. 

I want to model living well for others and to show, motivate, and encourage others to do the same. Now retired, you will likely find me spending time with my wife, a Parkinson’s expert and my care partner, two children and four grandchildren. I will also be found collaborating in research. I love learning, encouraging others to mentor, learn and build successful and fulfilling lives while enriching the community, and Congressional advocacy on behalf of for The Episcopal Church and AARP.

Become an Ambassador today and help people with Parkinson’s! Learn more about our volunteer opportunities and complete the volunteer interest form. We’ll contact you to learn more about your skills and interests.

Raise Awareness

Afrontando los cambios en las relaciones personales con Parkinson

An older and younger woman hugging

Con el avance de la enfermedad de Parkinson (EP), probablemente descubra que las relaciones y los papeles que desempeña en su vida cambian. 

En parte, ciertos síntomas de la EP, como la dificultad para hablar o el enmascaramiento, (también conocido como la reducción de la expresión facial o hipomimia) pueden afectar cómo se expresa y se comunica con los demás. Recuerde que su lenguaje corporal y su capacidad para hablar son importantes en su papel como padre o madre, cónyuge, amigo, abuelo o empleado. Ayudar a los demás a comprender la enfermedad de Parkinson puede darle poder sobre su experiencia con la EP. 

La comunicación tras un diagnóstico

Aunque los síntomas del Parkinson —desde los síntomas motores, como problemas para moverse, hasta los síntomas no motores, como la depresión— pueden hacer que se sienta tentado a aislarse, recuerde que aún es posible mantener relaciones significativas y productivas. Para lograrlo, tendrá que abordar los problemas que afectan a su capacidad para comunicarse eficazmente con las personas de su vida. 

Llegará el momento en que quiera informar a los demás de su diagnóstico. El momento correcto y la preparación pueden ayudar. Para empezar, probablemente no quiera hablar de todos los detalles de su enfermedad, pero dé a las personas más cercanas a usted información precisa acerca de su diagnóstico de Parkinson y cómo lo está manejando. Puede ser útil explicarles sus síntomas actuales: los que pueden ver y los que no. Ayúdeles a prepararse para lo que podría ocurrir más adelante y cómo podría afectarles. Piense en estas interacciones como el inicio de una conversación que, en el mejor de los casos, continuará mientras aprende a vivir con la EP. 

Cambio de roles en la familia

Al irse adaptando a la vida con Parkinson y progresen los síntomas, sus roles dentro de la familia pueden evolucionar. Es posible que su cónyuge asuma un papel más bien de cuidador o aliado en el cuidado, que usted tenga que dejar de hacer ciertas tareas o que dependa de sus hijos adultos para que le ayuden a acudir a las consultas médicas. Los cambios de roles pueden ser difíciles, pero adaptarse es vital para vivir con Parkinson. 

Si tiene problemas de reducción de la expresión facial y del habla desde el principio, es una buena idea prever el momento en el que pueda necesitar que otra persona le ayude a comunicarse, sobre todo en las consultas médicas. Si no tiene cónyuge o pareja que le ayude, busque a un familiar o amigo de confianza. 

Comunicándose con su pareja

Los síntomas del Parkinson pueden ser increíblemente frustrantes para la persona que lo tiene, pero también pueden ser un desafío para su pareja. Puede que les cueste reconocerlo como la misma persona de antes del diagnóstico. Pueden sentir que están fracasando como aliados en el cuidado o cónyuges porque no pueden establecer vínculos que antes consideraban básicos. 

Los problemas de comunicación entre los seres queridos pueden aumentar el estrés del cuidador y llevar al agotamiento. Dedique tiempo a trabajar en su comunicación. Esto puede ser dedicar un tiempo semanal para conectar con los demás, asistir juntos a un grupo de apoyo o buscar un consejero de salud mental. Cuando la comunicación se vuelve más fácil, la vida es más fácil para todos los implicados. 

Comunicándose con sus hijos

Compartir el diagnóstico de Parkinson con amigos y familiares fomenta la conexión y el apoyo. También es importante decidir cuándo y cómo contárselo a los niños en su vida. Las respuestas sencillas a preguntas básicas pueden ayudar a los niños a entender mejor el Parkinson. 

Consejos para hablar con sus hijos o nietos

  • Utilice términos sencillos para explicar su diagnóstico y los síntomas. 

  • Si tiene más de un hijo, intente hablar primero con uno a la vez.  

  • Prepárese para responder a preguntas básicas, como si el diagnóstico es mortal, si la EP es contagiosa y si a su hijo le dará. 

  • Invite a su hijo a hacer preguntas y prepárese para que algunas de ellas sean de naturaleza delicada. 

  • Haga una visita para que su hijo lo acompañe a su neurólogo para hablar de la enfermedad y de lo que puede esperar.  

  • Informe a sus hijos que habrá algunos cambios en la vida diaria y que trabajar en equipo ayudará a su familia.  

  • Enseñe a su hijo a explicar la enfermedad a sus amigos, en caso de que le pregunten por ella.  

Comunicándose con sus amigos

En algún momento, querrá tener una conversación franca con sus amigos acerca del Parkinson. Intente mantener contactos con personas optimistas que comprendan su enfermedad y estén dispuestas a aprender más y, tal vez, incluso a echarle una mano cuando sea necesario. 

Manejo de la vida laboral

Decidir cuándo informar a su empresa y a sus compañeros de trabajo acerca de su enfermedad es una decisión que sólo usted puede tomar. Comunicárselo a su empresa cuanto antes tiene sus ventajas, sobre todo si sus síntomas empiezan a empeorar y a afectar su desempeño. Ocultar su enfermedad en el lugar de trabajo puede provocar un estrés adicional, que puede empeorar los síntomas. Si su habla se ve afectada, los demás pueden empezar a sacar conclusiones precipitadas. 

Informar a su jefe de su enfermedad puede permitir que su empresa se adapte a sus necesidades especiales. La Ley de Estadounidenses con Discapacidades (Americans with Disabilities Act o ADA, por sus siglas en inglés) obliga a las empresas a realizar adaptaciones razonables para los empleados. La ADA define estas adaptaciones como "cualquier modificación o ajuste de un puesto o del entorno de trabajo que permita a un solicitante o empleado cualificado con una discapacidad participar en el proceso de selección o realizar las funciones esenciales del puesto". 

Planificar con anticipación

  • Consulte la política de personal de su empresa. Infórmese acerca de los permisos por enfermedad y el mantenimiento de los beneficios de salud. 

  • Antes de dirigirse a tu jefe, decida si sólo va a informarle de su enfermedad o si va a solicitar adaptaciones específicas.  

  • Escriba los puntos que desea tratar. Antes de la reunión, hable con su médico para que escriba una carta de apoyo y pídale recomendaciones concretas acerca de cómo aprovechar al máximo su tiempo de trabajo.  

  • Sea franco y positivo. Indique su voluntad de trabajar juntos para identificar posibles adaptaciones que le ayuden a seguir haciendo su trabajo.  

Vivir solo

Salir con alguien y entablar nuevas amistades puede ser difícil para cualquiera y más aún para alguien que vive con Parkinson. 

Crear su equipo de apoyo para la EP

Al navegar por esta enfermedad, es importante que encuentre su comunidad de la EP. Estas son algunas ideas:   

  • Grupos de apoyo. Explore los grupos locales de Parkinson y los grupos para personas con enfermedades crónicas. 

  • Su lugar de culto. Podría encontrar un sentimiento de pertenencia y comunidad.  

  • Organizaciones y eventos locales relacionados con el Parkinson. Asistir a eventos o trabajar como voluntario le ayudará a crear sólidos vínculos sociales. ¿No sabe por dónde empezar? Consulte nuestros eventos de Moving Day de la Parkinson’s Foundation, una caminata por el Parkinson, que se llevan a cabo en todo el país.  

  • Salas de chat y foros de Internet. Muchas personas solteras con Parkinson han forjado amistades sólidas a través de comunidades virtuales.  

  • Clases de ejercicio para el Parkinson. Llame a nuestra Línea de Ayuda 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636), opción 3 para español, para obtener una lista de clases de ejercicio y bienestar para la EP cerca de usted.  

Navegue por los cambios en las relaciones con confianza explorando más de nuestros recursos.

Fact Sheets

Todo sobre la EP: Bienestar emocional

La enfermedad de Parkinson (EP) puede afectar el estado de ánimo. Aprenda acerca de las causas, las señales y qué hacer. No está solo.

Hasta un 50% de las personas con la EP experimentan depresión o ansiedad.

Entienda las causas

Las mismas sustancias químicas del cerebro que afectan el movimiento en la EP pueden influir además en las emociones. Factores como la genética, el estilo de vida, el estrés y sobrellevar la EP también pueden desempeñar un papel.

Conozca las señales

Es normal sentirse triste, ansioso o sin ánimo de vez en cuando. Si esto persiste o afecta su vida diaria, busque ayuda.

Si no se controlan, la depresión, la ansiedad y la apatía pueden empeorar los síntomas motores e impactar en la calidad de vida.

Depresión: Tristeza crónica, falta de energía, pérdida de alegría, desesperanza

Ansiedad: Preocupación, miedo, estrés, nervios o irritabilidad excesivos

Apatía: Falta de motivación, desinterés por actividades que antes disfrutaba

Llame o mande un texto al 988 si está en crisis.

Qué puede hacer

Hable con su medico
Existen opciones que pueden ayudar, como la terapia hablada y los medicamentos.

Manténgase activo
Con solo 30 minutos de actividad moderada, como caminar o hacer yoga, su cerebro suelta sustancias que ayudan a reducir el estrés, la ansiedad y la depresión.

Busque apoyo
Recurra a sus amigos, familiars o algún profesional de la salud mental. Para orientación, llame a nuestra Línea de Ayuda al 1-800-4PD-INFO (473-4636), opción 3 para español.

Conéctese y participe
Programe tiempo para conectar con los demás y busque formas de involucrarse. Aunque no tenga ganas, mantenerse activo puede mejorar su estado de ánimo.

Podcasts

Episode 179: Understanding Depression, Anxiety, and Apathy

Depression, anxiety, and apathy are common symptoms that are often overlooked in people with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Nearly half of those living with PD are likely to experience depression or anxiety at some point, but these non-motor symptoms often go unrecognized and undertreated. Because their signs can overlap and mimic one another, it can be challenging to pinpoint exactly what someone is going through.

Depression is known for feelings of persistent sadness or hopelessness. Anxiety might look like constant worry, excessive nervousness, or getting upset easily. Apathy, which is sometimes mistaken for depression, is the lack of motivation or interest to do things you used to enjoy. These symptoms can greatly impact your quality of life and worsen other PD symptoms. 

In this episode, we speak with Lauren Zelouf, MSW, LCSW from Penn Medicine’s Parkinson’s Disease & Movement Disorders Center, a Parkinson’s Foundation Center of Excellence. She shares how to distinguish among these different symptoms, emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs, and offers coping strategies for managing symptoms and seeking support.

Released: May 6, 2025

Podcasts

Episode 178: Maintaining Independence When Living Alone with Parkinson’s

Living alone with Parkinson’s disease (PD) presents daily challenges, but it also offers certain benefits, such as the independence to control your own schedule. Whether you choose to live alone, or find that nearby friends and family aren’t as close as you would like, there are resources to support you.  

Living alone can also bring physical and emotional hurdles. You may experience feelings of isolation or loneliness, and everyday tasks like cooking and cleaning can become more difficult while juggling PD symptoms. There are strategies that can help you feel more secured and empowered to overcome these challenges. For example, you might consider using a food delivery service on days when preparing meals feels overwhelming, or reaching out to a neighbor for help with shoveling snow. It’s important to prioritize self-care and recognize when it’s time to ask for help.  

In this episode, we speak with Susan Englander and Fran Chernowsky, two individuals living alone with Parkinson’s who are also members of the Parkinson’s Foundation PD Solo group. They share their experiences with the initial challenges of receiving a PD diagnosis, the importance of staying open and flexible to new things, and the value of finding a supportive community.   

Released: April 22, 2025 

Speakers

Raise Awareness

Caring for the Mind: 12 Parkinson’s Mental Wellness Resources

Older woman staring out of the window in despair

At times, living with Parkinson’s disease (PD) can feel overwhelming. Managing symptoms, navigating physical and mental changes and making lifestyle adjustments can all take an emotional toll. As you find your path forward, it’s essential to acknowledge and take steps to care for your mental health.  

Up to half of all people with Parkinson's will experience depression at some point, while 40% will experience anxiety. Nearly half of people with PD can also experience apathy, a loss of interest in life. These changes can be related to PD, due to a loss of dopamine and other chemical messengers the body makes to keep the brain healthy.  

Whether you live with PD or you are a care partner to someone who does, it can be challenging to know where to begin. Explore our top resources that address mental wellness and PD: 

1. Create space for all your emotions, even those of grief and loss. 

Grief is a natural part of the Parkinson’s journey, especially following a diagnosis. Holding onto grief impacts your mind and body. Read 6 Questions for Exploring Your Parkinson’s-Related Grief to find healthy ways to honor and process feelings of loss. 

2. Explore our e-book  Mood: A Mind Guide to Parkinson's Disease. 

Parkinson’s-related mood changes are commonly undertreated. There are screening tools and therapies available. Learn what to watch for and how to discuss treatment options with your doctor.  

3. Cultivate a state of calm with Mindfulness Mondays, a series of guided relaxations. 

Stress can worsen PD symptoms. Mindfulness, focusing on one thing at a time and blocking out distractions, promotes resiliency and reduces stress. Read Top Takeaways About Complementary Therapies and PD to explore more mind-body wellness practices. 

4. Listen to our podcast How to Talk About Impulse Control Disorders. 

Up to 14% of people receiving dopamine-replacement therapy can develop compulsive behaviors known as impulse control disorders. It is believed people perform these harmful behaviors (such as hypersexuality, hoarding or compulsive gambling) to relieve anxiety and tension.  

5. Learn how Parkinson’s disease cognition – the mental skills we use to focus, solve problems, plan, follow instructions and more.  

Thinking changes can influence mental health. Addressing Thinking Changes in Parkinson's identifies coping strategies and therapies for cognitive change. 

6. Break a sweat with our free, on-demand Fitness Friday workouts.  

Exercise is medicine. Regular exercise can ease depression, anxiety and other non-movement symptoms of PD, as well as improve mobility and flexibility. Aim for at least 2.5 hours a week.  

7. Build your mental health team. 

Mental health support helps you prioritize your emotional well-being and work through your feelings. To know what to look for in a mental health counselor, read 7 Helpful Tips for Finding Your Ideal Mental Health Counselor. 

8. Improve shut-eye with Sleep: A Mind Guide to Parkinson's Disease. 

Restorative sleep helps repair the brain and body and enhances mental wellness – critical for people with Parkinson’s and care partners. Expert Tips on How to Get Good Sleep with Parkinson's also offers strategies to build a healthy sleep routine. 

9. Read How to Harness Food as Medicine for Parkinson’s.  

Gut and brain health are intertwined. A nutrient-rich diet – including colorful fruits and vegetables, beans, whole grains, poultry, nuts, seeds, fatty fish, olive oil and other healthy fats – can offer neuroprotective benefits and boost the number of good bacteria in the body. 

10. Get social and connect with your PD community online or in person. 

Loneliness can affect physical and mental health. Find your nearest Moving Day, A Walk for Parkinson’s to meet others living with PD or access wellness classes and other resources near you through the Parkinson's Foundation local Chapter network. 

11. Don’t fear hard conversations. You are not alone. 

People with Parkinson’s are at an increased risk of suicide. If you are struggling with thoughts of despair, opening up to someone you trust is the first step toward getting the help you need. How to Openly Discuss Suicide and Parkinson’s can help you talk about difficult feelings. The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available 24 hours a day at 1-800-273-8255. 

12. Get inspired. Learn how others are navigating life with Parkinson’s. 

My PD Story is a place for where people share how they are raising awareness of PD and overcoming its challenges. Learn what keeps others hopeful and consider sharing your own story.  

For more mental health resources: 

We’re here for you. Contact our Helpline more information on mental health, referrals to professionals and resources in your area. Call 1-800-4PD-INFO (1-800-473-4636) or email Helpline@Parkinson.org. 

Subscribe to Mental Wellness
Back to Top