Mood Swings and Depression After a Stroke

Coping with mood swings

One common effect of stroke is lability. This problem makes people less able to control their emotions. Lability may cause a sudden mood shift that is out of context with what is going on. A person may suddenly cry or laugh.

You can help

• Stay calm. Accept the behavior and go on with what you were doing.

• If the person apologizes, acknowledge the behavior as a result of the stroke.

• Don't criticize.

• Treat the person with respect at all times.

Dealing with depression

A person may feel depressed after having a stroke. This may be due to brain damage. Changes in body image and grieving for lost skills, such as speech or freedom of movement, may also cause depression.

You can help

• Ask the healthcare provider whether medicine can help reduce the depression. You may need to take your loved one to see a psychiatrist or psychologist if they have severe depression.

• Help the person stay active. Play games, watch TV, take a walk, or listen to music together.

• Ask friends to visit if the person is willing to see them.

• Don't discount depression by telling the person to “cheer up.”