Changes in emotions after a stroke

Emotional reactions after a stroke may be different from normal emotional reactions.

• The reaction may have little or no obvious connection with what is happening around the person.
• Often reactions can be easily interrupted by diverting the person's attention.

People who have had a stroke—usually in the front part of the brain or in the brain stem—can lose emotional control and may switch from crying to laughing for no apparent reason.

• Crying appears to be the most frequent problem. Crying can be a symptom of depression, which is a medical condition that requires treatment. Untreated depression can interfere with recovery and can have a significant impact on enjoyment of life.
• Medicine may be needed to help control emotional responses and treat depression.

People who have had a stroke may act differently because they feel isolated and have vision problems. They may:

• Become irritable, confused, or restless.
• Sometimes have false beliefs (delusions).
• Have hallucinations.

This is more likely to occur when someone has to stay in bed for long periods of time, and it is more likely to be a problem at night. A radio playing softly in the bedroom or a dim light beside the bed may be helpful during the night.