The symptoms and stresses of Parkinson’s disease can make it difficult to maintain a positive mood. This weighs heavily on your mental health, which is why it’s important to combat those negative feelings. The volunteers at Connecticut Advocates for Parkinson’s  – serving all of Connecticut –  advise some ways to boost your mood and want to share a few directly related to side effects. These will play an integral role in the quality of life, as well as creating a positive outlook on your condition.

3 Tips to Achieve a Positive Mood

1. Interact

Feelings of isolation and depression are common symptoms of Parkinson’s. Feeling uncomfortable about the side effects of the condition can make it even worse. The best way overcome this is to get out and interact. Whether it’s with friends or family at your home, over the phone, or at a social event, speaking and interacting with someone can have a profound impact on your mood and will also help you become more comfortable with tremor, speech issues, and other common Parkinson’s symptoms.

2. Balance Your Day

Fatigue, another side effect of Parkinson’s disease, often leads to depression and anxiety. To avoid overwhelming yourself, balance your day carefully—don’t try to do too much at once. If possible, supplement some activities with exercise, as it’s an excellent way to achieve a physical and mental boost.

3. Challenge Your Brain

Anxiety and depression can be a side effect of boredom, which is why you should challenge your brain regularly. Whether it’s with board games or puzzles or by tinkering with a favorite hobby, it’s easy to forget negative emotions when you’re immersed in something you enjoy doing. You’ll also find a sense of fulfillment doing something you love.

Fighting Parkinson’s is a major undertaking, and the volunteers at Connecticut Advocates for Parkinson’s can help. They offer a variety of services and resources for people living with the condition and are committed to helping. Call (860) 266-6040 to speak with a representative, and visit the website and Facebook page for updates and other details.