Depression and Anxiety in Patients with Stroke and their Caregivers: A Literature Review

Stroke poses various forms of burden on those who suffer from it. It can lead to not only physical and cognitive disabilities but also psychological conditions, including stress, depression, and anxiety. These psychological and physical burdens resulting from stroke may also predict its recurrence, therefore, caregivers play an important role in taking care of patients and preventing exposure to risk factors. Literature has focused on the effects of stroke on patients, and there has been limited research on its effects on caregivers. Thus, this literature review aims to explore the link between patients’ physical and psychological health post-stroke and its influence on caregivers’ psychological health. It also outlines the effects of caregivers’ psychological health on patients’ health outcomes and recovery. Research shows the interdependent link between these factors, such that caregivers with poor psychological health may pose psychological stress on their patients and vice versa. Current intervention methods to improve patient-caregiver psychological health were discussed, and findings on their treatment outcomes were mixed.