Women are more profoundly affected by depression and anxiety after stroke than men, a new study reveals.
The report also highlights that women – who are also at a greater risk of dying after stroke – can experience worse outcomes and are less likely to regain independence.
Depression following a stroke is common, but women are at up to 70 per cent greater risk of experiencing mental health conditions like depression and anxiety, the Heart & Stroke Canada study reveals.
“If you experience post-stroke depression, your chance of becoming independent is reduced and your chance of returning home is lower and your chance of dying increases,” says Dr Mark Bayley, program medical director at UHN-Toronto Rehabilitation Institute and a Heart & Stroke funded researcher.
Statistics from 2019 show that 32 per cent more women die after stroke.
The new research shows that among survivors, women are 60 per cent less likely to regain independence in their daily activities and report a worse quality of life.
While stroke can happen at all ages and life stages, women are more at risk at three key times in their lives: during pregnancy, right after menopause and when they are elderly.
This can also bring age-related challenges; younger women often have many responsibilities including raising children and working, which can be difficult to manage after a stroke.
Additionally, as few people their age can relate to having a stroke, they can feel disconnected and isolated.
Elderly women have the most strokes and their strokes are the most severe. Post-stroke depression and anxiety have a significant negative impact on this age group.
Dr Lee-Anne Greer, a psychologist in Prince Edward Island who works with individuals who have experienced stroke, has witnessed a disparity in terms of roles and expectations for women.
“I have seen when mothers have had a stroke, they can really struggle to take on all of the roles that they had before, and potentially be trying to get themselves back to work at the same time,” she said.
Having access to support, both professional and peer support, can be crucial for women of all ages, says Dr Greer.
“Having opportunities to connect with others matches the way many women cope,” she says.
“We have revolutionised stroke care in Canada over the past several decades, but recovery services have not kept pace,” says Dr Patrice Lindsay, director, health systems, Heart & Stroke.
“We need to improve support after stroke including more mental health services, and we need to ensure women have equitable access and their voices are heard.”
