Recognizing and Addressing Demoralization in Parkinson Disease

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“Maintaining patients' sense of purpose, sense of identity, and meaning is just so critical.”

Parkinson disease (PD) is typically characterized by its motor manifestations; however, growing attention has been paid to the condition's nonmotor symptoms and psychosocial burden. Among these challenges is demoralization, a state characterized by feelings of hopelessness, helplessness, and an inability to cope that may occur following diagnosis or during periods of disease progression. Often mistaken for depression or apathy, demoralization has emerged as an important yet underrecognized aspect of the patient experience, with implications for quality of life, mental well-being, and long-term disease management.

At the 2026 Advanced Therapeutics in Movement & Related Disorders (ATMRD) Congress, held June 4-8 in Washington, D.C., a session titled “Feeling Defeated, Not Depressed: A Holistic Approach to Addressing Demoralization” was dedicated to raising awareness of the psychosocial challenges faced by patients with PD. Indu Subramanian, MD, a neurologist at UCLA in Los Angeles, California, delivered the presentation, highlighting emerging efforts to better understand and address demoralization in this patient population. To gain further insight into the topic, NeurologyLive^® spoke with Subramanian during the meeting.

In the interview, Subramanian reflected on the evolving recognition of demoralization in PD, discussed common misconceptions surrounding the condition, and outlined practical approaches clinicians can use to support patients. She also emphasized the value of multidisciplinary care, peer support, and wellness-based interventions in helping patients navigate the emotional challenges associated with living with PD.

To view more of our ATMRD coverage, click here!