Effect of early intervention on the quality of life of patients with post-stroke depression

Objective To investigate the effect of early intervention on the quality of life of patients with post-stroke depression. Methods A total of 246 patients with post-stroke depression assessed by self-rated depression scale (SDS) were divided into control group (n=92) and intervention group in which oral antidepressants were prescribed (n=154). All the patients were assessed with Hamilton Depression Scale (HAMD), modified Barthel index (MBI) and quality of life index (QLI) at the beginning and at 1, 3, and 6 months after the antidepression therapy, and the results were analyzed statistically. Results Compared with the control group, the patients receiving early intervention of post-stroke depression had lowered HAMD score, increased MBI score and QLI score at 1, 3, and 6 months after the treatment (P<0.05), with also obvious relief of depression, improved ability of daily activity and quality of life. Conclusion Early intervention of post-stroke depression may improve the depression and promote the recovery of bodily functions of the patients to increase their satisfaction with life and quality of life. Key words: Stroke; Depression; Quality of life