Depression untreated

A vast number of people suffering Parkinson's experience depression, but many go unrecognised and untreated. Due to the masking effect (expressionless face), fatigue and sleeping problems that are all part of Parkinson's, it is often very difficult to differentiate between the regular symptoms of the disease and that of depression. Diagnosing depression requires someone familiar with Parkinson's who has experience in this particular field. Depression if not treated, can actually make the condition worse. Living with a chronic disease (or in my case two diseases!) can result in social isolation, so I find myself in a catch 22 situation. I have very little energy and my mobility compromised makes it difficult to socialise, yet as human beings we all need interaction with others to keep a healthy emotional outlook on life. Parkinson's disease, by its very nature affects chemicals in the brain, and it is these very chemicals that are responsible for our emotional feelings. The shame and stigma attached to being depressed and requiring treatment should be shown the door. It is not a defect in one's character, but a part of the disease itself, and therefore should be treated with the dignity afforded all the other unpleasant symptoms. How sad that some people will openly talk about resting tremors or shuffling as they walk, but bring the word "depression" into the conversation, and I feel like we're back in the middle ages. Let's move forward and tackle these issues head on. I think its about time, don't you?