Psychiatric aspects of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)
Document Type
Journal Article
Publication Date
6-1-2010
Journal
Current Psychiatry Reports
Volume
12
Issue
3
DOI
10.1007/s11920-010-0118-6
Keywords
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis; End of life; Major depressive disorder; Personality; Psychiatry; Psychological reactions; Quality of life
Abstract
Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive disorder characterized by degeneration of motor neurons. Given the severe nature of ALS, many believed that patients would suffer from a high level of depression and a low quality of life. However, research into the psychological health of patients with ALS has shown that this is not the case. This article reviews the state of current knowledge as it pertains to the psychological health of ALS patients in four broad areas: quality of life, personality characteristics, emotional reactions, and end-of-life choices. © Springer Science+Business Media, LLC 2010.
APA Citation
Norris, L., Que, G., & Bayat, E. (2010). Psychiatric aspects of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Current Psychiatry Reports, 12 (3). http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s11920-010-0118-6