While stress does not affect the progression of Parkinson's disease (PD), it can temporarily aggravate your symptoms. In a situation where you are anxious, under pressure, or excited, the tremor of PD may worsen, slowness may increase, and gait difficulties may grow more severe.

Taking charge of your stress and proactively managing it can not only reduce the effects of stress, but it can reinforce your sense of control over Parkinson's disease.

The help of your personal support network can be invaluable in reducing stress. Reach out to family, friends, and to organized support groups for people with PD. Sometimes just talking with someone who has shared your experience can help a great deal.

There are many ways to reduce your stress. Meditation helps some people. Seeking balance in everyday life works for some people. Finding a way to laugh every day decreases stress for almost everyone. Exercise is an excellent way to defuse stress.