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Managing Anxiety & Depression

SPS is a rare, progressive neurological disorder characterized by severe muscle spasms that can break bones, dislocate joints, and result in life-threatening breathing problems. The impact on a patient’s quality of life reaches far beyond the physical — challenging their mental, emotional, and social well-being.

Management of Anxiety and Depression

Anxiety and depression are often part of SPS. Mental health therapy focused on addressing depression and anxiety, as well as pain and chronic illness and its complications, should be done with an experienced therapist. Treatment can include different types of talk therapy and medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy is often helpful.
 

Medication choices should be coordinated with an SPS specialist since some medications for anxiety or depression can make SPS symptoms worse. Medications in the SNRI category (serotonin and norepinephrine re-uptake inhibitors) can exacerbate SPS symptoms. Medications in the SSRI category (selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors) are thought to be safe for people with SPS.

Disclaimer: The content of this Website is provided for informational and educational purposes only, and does not in any way intend to substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The content is not intended to be medical advice for any particular person or patient and should not be relied upon as medical advice. You should always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified healthcare provider for medical advice, including any questions you may have regarding diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition.

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Contributors to this document include: Jim Weiss, MD; Vered Lewy-Weiss, MD; Tara Zier, DDS and SPS patient.

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