Assessment and approach to treatment in post-stroke depression

Recent research indicates that post-stroke depression results from neurobiological changes associated with focal cerebral injury. Family or medical personnel may identify potential depression. An accurate assessment process will determine the extent of depression and indicate treatment options. Treatment approaches using both medication and cognitive therapy can help the individual replace negative thinking patterns with positive patterns. Depression has been accepted as a normal accompaniment of stroke. The area of injury may correlate with the degree of mood disorder. Interventions to reverse depression will serve to improve rehabilitation potential and increase chances of recovering pre-stroke capabilities.