Non-Motor Symptoms in Parkinson’s Disease
Mood Changes (Anxiety, Depression & Apathy)
Mood symptoms in Parkinson’s are often neurological — not just emotional.These can include anxiety, depression, and apathy, and may fluctuate throughout the day or with medication timing.
In 2022, I experienced a stroke that was initially misinterpreted as a mental health issue. It wasn't until further testing that the neurological cause was confirmed.That experience showed me how easily neurological symptoms—especially anxiety, depression, and emotional changes—can be misunderstood.This section exists to help patients, caregivers, and clinicians to better recognize the difference and to ensure that these symptoms are taken seriously.
Understand What's Happening
Tap a symptom below to learn more
Caregiver Support
Caregiver Guide: Mood Changes in Parkinson's
Watch: Understanding Mood Changes in Parkinson's.
Other Non-Motor Symptoms
—Apathy
—Depression
© 2026 TooShaky
Disclaimer: This patient education resource was created by Dawn Howard, Parkinson’s Advocate & Neurological Health Educator, through TooShaky.org, to support individuals newly diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Content is informed by lived experience, patient education best practices, and information from established medical, nonprofit, and educational sources. Drafting, editing, and organizational support were assisted by ChatGPT (OpenAI) as a writing and language tool, under the direction and review of the author. Educational content and references are drawn from sources including, but not limited to: Parkinson’s Foundation, The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research, American Parkinson Disease Association (APDA), Davis Phinney Foundation, Mayo Clinic, Peer-reviewed medical literature and clinical education resources. This material is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended to replace individualized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Patients should discuss all medical questions and care decisions with their healthcare provider. TooShaky.org does not provide medical care and does not establish a clinician–patient relationship.
