Ever had a bad reaction from a questionnaire?

[Parkinson_Schmarkinson]

I am participating in a PD study and had to fill out several long psychological questionnaires relating to depression and anxiety. I felt fine when I answered the questions but the next day I was crying like a baby. The questions restimulated all my old feelings, it was horrible. Two days later I was back to baseline, i.e. basically happy.

Anybody have an experience like this?

[Hidden]

I am always wary of these questionaires and what they want exactly and who the info goes to.

[jillannf6]

questionnaires someitmes make u think u have go t the problem (if health ones) hwen in fact you have not

other htan that ;keep strong and a

lol JIll

[soup]

This is a tricky one isn't it? It really depends on how one been dealing with any difficult emotions and strong feelings up to now.

My husband ignored his depression and ploughed on through every day until he couldn't go on. It was only when the GP asked him the defining questions about clinical depression and his feelings that he was able to accept a diagnosis of depression. Up until that point he had buried his head in the sand and denied everything...

If you have properly dealt with these emotions and feelings, including anxiety, depression, anger etc then you will recognise the significance of the questions being asked but have the resilience to deal with them.

However, if you have just papered over the cracks and tried to soldier on it might be a tool to help you, objectively, recognise needs that you have previously shrugged off.

Your reaction to the questions might be a good indication that for some people they are very pertinent and will be a help in spurring them into action.

As for participating in these sorts of research it always remains a personal choice. However, it is amazing how many judgements are made about the effectiveness of therapies in Parkinson's without a secure baseline against which to measure their effectiveness. How would people know the best exercise, anti depressant, or pain medication to take if there is no reliable method of measuring the changes. If you are not happy with the aims of the study, its security or your safety say NO. We are people affected by Parkinson's but not guinea pigs. The balance is in the hands of individuals.

Best wishes

Sue

[PatV in reply to soup]

Yes, Sue, we are people ! brilliant

[PatV]

my neuro was actually embarrassed to administer the test "how often have you thought of suicide" come on. I was basically depressed until my menopause and then it lifted. Whenever it comes back, I take action. Can't stand it hangin' round my door! Got enough to deal with .

[CathyS]

Went through that when applying for medical retirement. It makes you think about all the bad. Then you need to move on and rejoice in the good Best of luck to you.

[Parkinson_Schmarkinson]

Thanks to all for thoughtful replies.