Post Stroke Depression Case Studies

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Depression is considered one of the most common findings after an acute stroke. This condition can adversely affect cognitive functioning, physical and mental recovery, and survival. A current issue in health care is that providers are prescribing antidepressants without first screening and diagnosing depression, causing them to over-treat some patients, while overlooking others. A critical appraisal of literature was conducted to investigate both the promptness and accuracy of diagnosing post-stroke depression by screening versus not screening within this population. This paper will also discuss the definitive diagnosis of post-stroke depression, universally validating tools for screening post-stroke depression, acceptable treatment, …show more content…
Although there has been a decrease in the trend in mortality amongst this population, the rate of morbidity is still high precisely among western cultures/societies. It is estimated that a third of post stroke patients suffer from depressive symptoms, and that three-fourths of strokes occur in patients who are 65 years of age and/or older (Schoenstadt, 2017). The World Health Organization (WHO) predicted cerebrovascular disease to presumably be ranked the second highest cause of disability by 2020 worldwide. Various studies have discussed the prevalence of post stroke depression (PSD) with reports varying in the frequency and results due to the differences in patient selection, diagnostic criteria, time, and evaluation methods (Schoenstadt, 2017). According to Schoenstadt, “Of the 600,000 American men and women who experience one or recurrent strokes each year, an estimated 10 to 27 percent will experience major depression. An additional 15 to 40 percent of stroke survivors will experience some symptoms of depression within three to six months following a stroke” (2017, para 5). The location of the brain lesion, pre-stroke social functioning, and previous or familial history of depression affects the severity or likelihood of one being at risk for PSD. Prompt recognition of symptoms, duration and severity, proper diagnosis, and appropriate treatment/interventions are key …show more content…
According to Turner et. al (2012), approximately one-third of stroke survivors experience major depression, which moreover has an adverse effect on their recovery, cognitive functioning or increased cognitive impairment, and survival. A current issue in healthcare that has risen is that providers are prescribing anti-depressants to stroke patients without first properly screening and diagnosing for depression, causing them to over-treat some patients, while overlooking others, particularly those patients without a previous history of depression or other mental illness (Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada, 2012). According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation (2012), “Screening for depression after all strokes could result in more positive outcomes for patients and their families, as well as benefit those who would need specialized medication, counseling, and referrals to other health professionals will not be missed” (para. 11). The gap that exist with this issue is that there are insufficient amounts of research conducted/available for this issue of discussion (Alajbegovic,
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