Life Stress and Managing Transitions Unanticipated Change of Course: The Diagnosis of Chronic Progressive Neurological Disease: No Deal!

Abstract

In this chapter, the authors explore the stressful transitions faced by a person experiencing an unanticipated change of course in life when one receives the diagnosis of chronic progressive neurological disease. Trace with these authors the personal journey of a physician as he comes to realize the symptom onset of a neurological disease that is initially denied. His next physical exam revealed the diagnosis of Idiopathic Parkinson's Disease. Initial medications saw a reduction in symptoms for the next several years. Following that period of time, the symptoms returned with more tremors, more rigidity, and more slowness of movement. The second author provides insights into treatment options and quality of life for the person with a progressive degenerative neurological disease and some essentials for patient and caregivers in transitioning this stressful life experience. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved)