Newly diagnosed with Parkinson's
Getting a diagnosis of Parkinson’s affects everyone differently. Some people go through a range of emotions, from feeling overwhelmed to feeling relieved.
You may find this information helpful if you've been recently diagnosed with Parkinson's.
You may also find it helpful if someone you know like your partner, friend or relative has been diagnosed.
Parkinson's is a progressive neurological condition. This means that it causes problems in the brain and gets worse over time.
But everyone's Parkinson's progresses differently.
There are also lots of different treatments, therapies and support available to help you manage the condition.
At the moment, there is no cure for Parkinson's.
We've already made enormous strides in our understanding of the condition and developed better treatments and therapies.
But despite recent progress we’re still searching for a cure.
Parkinson's UK is the largest charity funder of Parkinson's research in Europe. We've fast-tracked research to identify the support that people need right now, in this crisis.
Through innovation and collaboration we are leading the way to find a cure. Find out how you can be part of this by taking part in research using out Take Part Hub.
Having Parkinson's doesn't necessarily mean that you will have to stop driving.
But there are some things you need to know about staying safe on the road, and you may need to have a medical or driving assessment.
Just because you've been diagnosed with Parkinson's, it doesn’t mean you have to stop work.
If your treatment is carefully managed and you have plenty of support, it is possible to continue working for many years.
This depends on the type of job you have and how Parkinson's affects you.
Research shows that exercise can slow the progression of your symptoms and can be as important as medication to help you take control.
If you're newly diagnosed then it's best to focus on vigorous exercise like running, gym sessions and cycling.
Having Parkinson's may affect your finances. But knowing what financial support is available and planning and managing your finances will help you.
We can help you connect with other people affected by Parkinson’s - whether you're someone living with the condition or a family member, friend or carer. Our support services are a great way of finding out how other people cope with Parkinson's.
Find out more about our online community or our local groups.
You can also read about other people's experiences of Parkinson's on our magazine.
Parkinson's isn't just an older person's condition. But people often think it is, and that can be alienating for younger people who are diagnosed.
Having Parkinson's as a younger person isn't going to be easy, but we can let you know exactly what information and support we can offer to manage your condition.
Find out more about getting help and support if you're younger.
If a friend or family member has been diagnosed with Parkinson's it's normal to have a lot of questions.
If you don't know what to do or where to start, check out our practical to-do list for newly diagnosed people.
If your partner, friend or relative has been diagnosed with Parkinson's, it's normal to have a lot of questions too.
First Steps
First Steps is a free online programme designed for people recently diagnosed with Parkinson's.
“Diagnosis put me at a real crossroads. I had no idea what the future would hold for me and it was really hard letting go of my old way of life.”
Mel was diagnosed with Parkinson’s a year ago at the age 45, something which she describes as a ‘monumental moment’. Here she shares her story and explains how her positive outlook is helping her through.
"I often remind myself that my future is in my hands – I’m in control of my own life...Getting a diagnosis wasn’t easy, but I’m learning more every day and gradually adapting to life with Parkinson’s."
Daxa is 55 and lives in Leicester. She was diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2019. Here she shares her story.
“I’d been trying to cope with everything, but really, I was very broken. It felt like after my diagnosis nobody gave me anything positive to hang on to. But in my very first appointment with my physio, he told me I had a future – perhaps not the future I had planned, but I still had a life to lead."
Jackie shares how she began facing up to her Parkinson’s diagnosis and in the process, has reminded herself what she is still capable of.
Being diagnosed with Parkinson’s can an emotional experience. Some people feel shocked or confused – others feel angry or anxious. Some people even feel relieved to have an explanation for their symptoms.
Here we share how people have coped with their own diagnosis.
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Coping with your diagnosis
In this video, hear from other people living with Parkinson's and their families about how they came to terms with their diagnosis.
You'll also hear their ideas about how to start feeling in control of life with the condition.
People with Parkinson's, and the people in their lives are part of research breakthroughs.
Through the Take Part Hub, people can participate from the very beginning. Opportunities to take part in research range from questionnaires to be completed at home, to trialling new treatments.
If you've been recently diagnosed, we can send you information on topics that are of interest or most relevant to you and your circumstances.
Parkinson's and you
This introductory guide to Parkinson's contains information about symptoms, treatments and living with Parkinson's.
It includes information on everything from work, driving, diet and exercise to emotional issues and relationships.
Download Parkinson's and you (PDF, 685KB)
We know lots of people would rather have something in their hands to read, so you can order printed copies of our information by post, phone or email.
This information is currently being updated.
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Find local services, activities and support
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Helpline and local advisers
Our helpline and Parkinson's local advisers are here to answer any questions you have about your recent diagnosis and life with Parkinson's.
Call us on 0808 800 0303.