Exploring post-stroke mood changes in community-dwelling stroke survivors: A longitudinal cohort study

Abstract

Background: There are few longitudinal studies exploring the patterns of psychological morbidity and factors contributing to change over time. The aim of this study is to explore the predictors of anxiety and PSD and factors contributing to change in symptoms in stroke survivors over a 12 month period. Method: This study is a prospective cohort study of 120 stroke survivors interviewed at baseline (stroke onset), 3, 6, 9, and 12 months. Outcome is assessed with measures of physical function (MRS, BI), depression and anxiety (HADS) and psycho-social function (K10, AQOL, social support, community participation). Results: Data has been collected on 102 participants. Over time anxiety reduced (P = 0.001) and depression (HADS) and distress (K10) remained unchanged. Increased disability (MRS) was associated with higher anxiety (HADS) (P=0.0405), depression (HADS) (P= 0.0015), distress (K10) (P = 0.0728) and reduced QOL (P (less-than or equal to) 0.0001) over time Discussion: Anxiety is heightened at baseline and reduces over time. Clinicians should be mindful of this when using screening measures that have an anxiety and depression sub-components. Increased disability impacts QOL over time and is most notable following discharge from hospital. These results support the need for greater availability of longer term community services to monitor for PSD and facilitate community participation.