Annette Brooke, MP for Mid Dorset and North Poole, joined forces with the Stroke Association and stroke survivors from around the country at a Parliamentary reception to help raise awareness of the emotional impact of stroke.
The event was held to highlight the findings of the Stroke Association’s latest report ‘Feeling overwhelmed’ which reveals that many stroke survivors and carers struggle to find the appropriate support to help them cope with the emotional impact of the condition.
There are 1.2 million stroke survivors living in the UK and someone has a stroke every five minutes. Although a stroke happens in an instant the effects can last a life time, recovery is different for every survivor and their family. Emotional issues such as depression, anxiety and a lack of confidence are common but the Stroke Association’s report found that almost 80% of stroke survivors surveyed throughout the UK said that had received no information or practical advice to help them cope with the emotional impact of stroke.
Annette Brooke MP spoke to stroke survivors and carers about their experiences and found out about the free resources available to stroke survivors including the Stroke Association’s ‘You are not alone’ guide which offers practical advice and tips on coping with the emotional effects of stroke. MPs present at the event were also able to find out about the work of stroke clubs and groups which operate in many parts of the country and help stroke survivors and carers meet with people who have had similar experiences.
Annette Brooke said: “According to a recent Stroke Association survey around 55% of stroke survivors in the South West had experienced depression and 60% had experienced anxiety as a result of their stroke. Stroke is life changing and the emotional impact can be far reaching. For many the psychological impact can be just as devastating as the physical. Stroke survivors and their carers can feel overwhelmed by worries, fears and emotions as they struggle to cope with the aftermath of stroke.
“I want people in Mid Dorset and North Poole who are struggling emotionally after stroke to know that they are not alone and that information and support is available. I would encourage stroke survivors, carers and family members to call the Stroke Association’s helpline or visit their website to find out what support is available.”
Joe Korner, communications director at the Stroke Association said: “We offer practical resources to stroke survivors and carers to manage the emotional shockwaves that can follow a stroke and we want to make sure no one faces those problems alone. It is brilliant that members of Parliament are taking the time to understand this complex condition and support stroke survivors.”
For a downloadable copy of the You’re not alone guide, please visit www.stroke.org.uk/factsheet/youre-not-alone. Alternatively you can call the Stroke Helpline on: 0303 3033 100 for more information about stroke and the support that is available locally.
