According to the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, depression is a common occurrence for stroke survivors. According to the association′s scientific statement, approximately one-third of stroke survivors have depression, compared to 5%-13% of people without stroke. It can reduce quality of life and make recovering after a stroke more difficult if left untreated.

Stroke survivors may experience despair, anxiety, or PTSD-like symptoms if particular brain regions are affected, which can harm the mechanisms that control mood. There are numerous disorders that endanger the health of the brain, including depression and stroke. Life′s Essential 8 is a potent tool to safeguard brain health and promote longer, healthier lives, developed by the American Heart Association.

Mr. Lee H. Schwamm, M.D., FAHA, an American Heart Association volunteer and professor of neurology at Harvard Medical School in Boston, suggested that stroke survivors who experience depression should seek evaluation and treatment with a qualified professional. Self-care is essential because a stroke can impair one′s ability to eat, sleep, use the restroom, and perform other physiological functions. This includes contacting friends and family for emotional support and to help overcome any shame associated with asking for assistance.

However, many stroke survivors are reluctant to seek assistance and may require additional support to recognise the signs of depression and seek therapy. This is because both stroke and depression still carry societal stigma and shame. He added that, similar to other types of depression, therapy, medication, stress-reduction techniques, and regular exercise can all be beneficial. 

(Source: https://theprint.in/health/study-indicates-one-third-of-stroke-survivors-experience-depression/1378589/ )