Adjusting to a hemorrhagic stroke at 36 how do i get out of this depression

Hi Donna,

Thank you for reaching out. I am sorry to hear about your stroke and how difficult it must be to adjust to life post-stroke.

Depression after stroke is common, in fact, it is the most common mood disturbance post-stroke. We also know that depression is more than just sadness or a low mood, it is a serious illness that can have severe effects on both physical and mental health. It may be a direct impact from your stroke, as stroke can affect how you experience and process emotions. It may also be a side-effect from having had a stroke in the first place, especially at a young age. Alternatively, it could be a combination of both. You can read more on what we know about anxiety and stroke here:

We appreciate you sharing your story and would highly encourage speaking with your doctor or other health professionals about how you are feeling if you haven’t already.

Psychologists and neuropsychologists are health professionals who can help with mood and thinking changes after stroke. A psychologist can help you manage overwhelming emotions or moods (such as depression) through counselling. A neuropsychologist can provide a thorough assessment of your cognitive skills, including any significant emotional changes that are unlike your usual self. This assessment can clarify whether you are able to return to activities such as work (if this is relevant), and what support you might need to do so. For more information about these health professionals, please visit this page on our EnableMe website: Psychology and Neuropsychology | enableme - stroke recovery and support .  

You may speak to your GP for a referral to a psychologist or neuropsychologist. For psychology, you may want to explore a with your GP about a Mental Health Care Plan which entitles you to a number of subsidised sessions with a psychologist, although there will still be a partial out-of-pocket cost. If you have private health insurance, it might be worth to check whether your policy will cover any of the costs.

Whilst it is crucial to speak to a health professional about your mood as we have outlined above, you may also consider the program ‘This Way Up’. It is an online, self-guided treatment program which aims to empower you to manage your mental health.

We have also heard from stroke survivors that connecting with others who have their own lived experience of stroke can be helpful.

If you are interested in peer support, the Genyus ‘Coffee Club’ is worth considering. It is an online, peer-led video meetup over Zoom, hosted by a trained fellow member from the Genyus network (a trauma survivors network developed by a young stroke survivor).

If you wish to attend a stroke support group in person, you can check if there are any support groups local to your area by searching for your location on this page: Support groups | enableme - stroke recovery and support | enableme - stroke recovery and support. We would recommend reaching out to the group’s contact person to confirm details like location and timing.

If you would like more information, please do not hesitate to contact us on StrokeLine 1800 787 653 or email . We are available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm AEDT. 

Take care,

Bethany (Strokeline)