When emotions are overwhelming, it can be easy to think that things will never get better, but they do.

And remember, you’re not on your own. There are lots of people who are there to help you cope with the way you’re feeling. You do not have to do it alone.

Lots of treatments and therapies can help with your emotions after a stroke. Changes in mood should be assessed by your stroke team, who can offer advice. If you are struggling with your mood or emotions, let your stroke team or GP know. Depending on the problems you’re having, your healthcare professional may be able to refer you to a specialist. Your stroke team may include a clinical psychologist or neuropsychologist with expertise in stroke.

Many people find talking about the way they’re feeling helps them to understand and deal with it. There are different types of talking therapies available and your GP may be able to refer you. Medication may help as well for some problems.

Talking therapies

Talking therapies give you time and space to talk about your problems and explore difficult feelings with a trained therapist. This could be a counsellor, psychotherapist, psychologist or a psychiatrist. This can help you deal with specific problems or develop ways of coping with your thoughts and feelings.

Therapists may work with you one-to-one or jointly with your partner or other family members. Group therapy sessions are another option. Sessions might take place in person, online or over the phone.

Cognitive behavioural therapy

One type of talking therapy that many people find helpful is cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). This can help with many of the emotions people experience after a stroke. CBT is often used as a treatment for depression and anxiety.

CBT focuses on how our thoughts and beliefs may influence our feelings and actions. In CBT, you learn to identify and challenge negative thought-patterns, develop more positive reactions, and improve the way you feel. It usually involves a number of sessions over several weeks or months.

You can also try interactive online programmes or books on CBT, which can guide you through exercises and techniques. Your GP or therapist may be able to recommend some.

Counselling made me think about things in a different way. Since then, I’ve been less irritable, less mournful and far more positive about my future.

Jan, stroke survivor

Talking therapies and counselling services through the NHS vary depending on where you live. In England, you can refer yourself to a service via the NHS online. Or you can ask your GP to refer you, wherever you live in the UK.

Your stroke team may have its own clinical psychologist or access to specialist services. They can advise what’s available in your area.

Some people choose to pay for private talking therapy or counselling. This could be if they want more therapy than the NHS can usually offer, or if they may face a longer wait for NHS treatment in their area. The mental health charity, Mind, has information about finding and paying for private therapy. Some employers or education providers may also offer free access to services such as counselling. You can also contact our Stroke Support Helpline for information on sources of support.

Typical private talking therapy prices can vary widely, from between around £40 to over £100 for one session, so this is not an option for everyone. If you choose private therapy, look for a qualified therapist. Professional bodies such as BABCP and BACP have online directories of registered and accredited practitioners. See ‘Other sources of help and information’.

Medication

Medications can be helpful for some mental health conditions. They are sometimes used alongside other treatments, such as talking therapies. There are different types of antidepressant which alter the chemicals in your brain and lift your mood. These can help to treat depression and sometimes anxiety.

Antidepressant medication may also be prescribed for severe or persistent cases of emotionalism. This may help some people, but more research is needed into how effective medication may be for emotionalism.

Antidepressants do not cure emotional problems, but they may help with the symptoms and make life feel easier. They do not work for everyone and are usually best for people with more severe problems. They can also have side effects. Your doctor should discuss the individual benefits and risks with you.

There are many different types of medication available. It can take time to find the right one, at the right dose. They can also take a little while to start working. If it’s something you decide to try, you’ll need to persevere and work with your doctor to find what works best for you. If you wish to come off them, you’ll need help from your doctor on how to stop gradually.