Stroke and Depression There is a relationship between stroke and
depression. Of the 600,000 American men and women who experience
a first or recurrent stroke each year, an estimated 10 to 27
percent will experience major depression. Unfortunately, the
depression that often follows a stroke is frequently undiagnosed
and untreated. When a person experiences both a stroke and
depression, it's important to treat both medical problems
separately. Depression can strike anyone, but people who have
had a stroke may be at greater risk of feeling depressed.
Appropriate diagnosis and treatment of depression may bring
substantial benefits to people who are recovering from a stroke
by improving their medical status, enhancing their quality of
life, and reducing their pain and disability. Treatment for
depression can also: - Shorten the rehabilitation process - Lead
to more rapid recovery and resumption of routine - Save on
healthcare costs. Stroke can occur in all age groups and can
even affect fetuses still in the womb.