NATIONWIDE — According to American Stroke Association experts, depression is a common experience for stroke survivors.

It could be the result of the psychological impact of the stroke, or electrical or chemical changes in the region of the injured brain

A scientific statement from the Association indicates that about one-third of stroke survivors experience depression, compared to five percent to 13 percent of adults who have not had a stroke.

If left untreated, depression can affect a patient’s quality of life, and make post-stroke recovery more difficult.

“Depression following a stroke can be a normal psychological reaction to the stress of the injury, disability or brush with mortality brought on by the stroke,” said Lee H. Schwamm, M.D., an American Heart Association volunteer and professor of neurology at Harvard Medical School in Boston.

“In other cases, it can be caused by structural, electrical or biochemical changes in the brain,” he said. “If certain brain regions are injured, the systems that regulate emotion could be damaged and produce depression, anxiety or PTSD-like symptoms in stroke survivors.

He recommended use of the American Heart Association’s tool Life’s Essential 8, measures for improving and maintaining cardiovascular health.

Stroke survivors who are experiencing depression should seek evaluation and treatment with qualified professionals, said Schwamm.

Because a stroke can disrupt sleep, eating, continence and other bodily functions, self-care is critical. Unfortunately, because both stroke and depression still carry social stigma and shame, many stroke survivors are reluctant to seek help and may need extra support to acknowledge the symptoms of depression and seek treatment.

It is vital that stroke survivors reach out to family and friends, as well as health care professionals, for help.

As with all forms of depression, a combination of counseling, medication, stress reduction and regular exercise can all be helpful, according to a press release from the American Heart Association.

“Because depression is a serious health condition, treating it promptly and effectively is vital,” a spokesperson said. “Treating depression not only improves mood, but it also boosts physical, cognitive and intellectual recovery.”

Studies have shown that depression goes hand in hand with lower levels of social support. Support from family, friends, a stroke support group or a combination of resources can be beneficial for a stroke survivor’s mental long-term well-being and can be an important part of a treatment plan for post-stroke depression.

Information contributed by the American Stroke Association/American Heart Association.

The American Stroke Association works to prevent, treat and beat stroke by funding research, advocating for the public’s health, and providing lifesaving resources. Learn more at 888/4STROKE or visit stroke.org.

The American Heart Association has a support network for patients, families and caregivers than can help stroke survivors battling depression. Visit www.supportnetwork.heart.org.