Yes, often. Anxiety and depression affect more than half of patients with conditions like Alzheimer’s, Lewy body disorder, and vascular dementia. Becoming aware of one’s own decline, and the sense of becoming a burden on loved ones, will often bring on depression and anxiety. Also, neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s can deplete neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin, which affect an individual’s mood and ability to maintain calm.
Meditation, exercise, and therapy emphasizing relaxation can sometimes be effective in treating the anxiety and depression that frequently accompany NCDs.