Depression and neurological disorders

Abstract

Depression is the most common psychiatric disorder in neurological disorders such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke, and Parkinsons disease. It is associated with reduction of quality of life, functional impairment, and higher mortality. The diagnosis of depression in neurological disorders is difficult because of the overlapping symptoms. Neurological disorders are usually associated with sleep and appetite disturbances, fatigue, apathy, and lack of concentration, which is similar to those of depression. The etiology of depression with neurological disorders is unknown, but the interaction between biological, psychosocial, and neuropathological factors could be responsible for it. Few controlled trials have been carried out to investigate the efficacy of psychotherapeutic and pharmacological interventions in this population, and it seems that they are effective in improving depression, quality of life, and survival. Studies pertaining to prevention of depression in neurological disorders are promising.