After a stroke, improved screening and assessment for psychosocial needs are essential to provide optimal care, according to a new statement from the American Stroke Association. The statement highlights nurses as key players in helping individuals manage emotional and social health challenges, or psychosocial health, after a stroke, but everyone should be aware of the potential consequences.

According to the statement, 16% to 85% of people recovering from a stroke experience at least one psychosocial symptom, including depression, anxiety, stress, fatigue and/or decreased quality of life. Nursing interventions, such as regular mental health screenings, education, symptom management and follow-up care, are key to reducing the negative effects on a patient’s mental well-being after a stroke, yet only a small proportion of patients receive treatment.

“Stigma often surrounds discussions about psychosocial health. Therefore, it is crucial for nurses and all healthcare professionals to create a safe and therapeutic environment for patients and offer hope and comprehensive education on the topic,” said Chair of the scientific statement’s writing group Patricia A. Zrelak, PhD, RN, a regional stroke program quality nurse consultant for Kaiser Permanente Northern California and a member of the American Heart Association’s Council on Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing.

The scientific statement provides a comprehensive review of the latest evidence published from 2018-2023 about psychological health in patients who experienced a stroke. It addresses the effects, underlying causes, screening, diagnosis and treatment for five key emotional and social health factors, including depression, stress, anxiety, fatigue and quality of life.

“Emotional, cognitive, behavioral and/or personality changes may occur after a stroke,” Zrelak said. “These conditions can emerge immediately after a stroke or have a delayed onset, sometimes occurring more than a year later, and they may also fluctuate in intensity over time. In addition, psychosocial symptoms are interrelated, and patients who experience one are at higher risk of developing other mental health conditions. Effective and regular screening are vital for early detection and treatment.”

To download the full scientific statement, published in Stroke, click here