Managing Stress and Its Effects on Parkinson’s Disease

Rachel Dolhun, MD, a movement disorders neurologist and principal medical advisor at The Michael J. Fox Foundation, explains that heightened stress activates the body's ‘fight-or-flight’ response, which can amplify PD symptoms, making daily management more challenging.

Research and firsthand experiences indicate several ways that stress can impact individuals with Parkinson’s:

- Stress can intensify motor symptoms, such as tremors, stiffness, slowness, and balance issues.

- Stress may affect mood, leading to increased feelings of depression and anxiety, along with difficulties in concentration.

- Sleep can be disrupted by symptoms like tremor and stiffness, making restful sleep harder to achieve.

- For some, stress can lead to earlier or more intense ‘off’ periods, where medications do not seem to work as effectively.

- Chronic stress may accelerate symptom progression, as prolonged stress can worsen inflammation and strain the nervous system, intensifying certain symptoms.

To mitigate the impact of stress on Parkinson’s, individuals can adopt several strategies:

- Engage in physical activity, such as yoga or walking, which can lower stress hormones and elevate mood-enhancing chemicals in the brain. High-intensity exercises like boxing or strength training are also beneficial.

- Consider talk therapy or medication to support mental health, particularly when dealing with stress-related anxiety or depression.

- Implement mindfulness practices, such as breathing exercises and meditation, which can help individuals maintain a sense of control during stressful periods.

- Foster strong relationships with friends, family, and community to reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Importantly, individuals with Parkinson’s should communicate openly with their doctors about their stress levels and seek guidance on effective management strategies.