PseudoBulbar Affect Disorder is a condition that manifests as crying or laughing out of context. It presents without warning, and it cannot be controlled. It is confusing to the audience and embarrassing for the person with the condition and those accompanying them.

It is more common than you might expect and is seen in many conditions. The following demonstrates PBA frequency.
 

• Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) – 48% of patients
• Dementia – 39% of patients Stroke – 28% of patients
• Multiple sclerosis - 46% of patients
• Lou Gehrig’s disease – 50% of patients
• Parkinson’s disease – 24% of patients

As you review the list above, the common element to all of these diseases with PBA symptoms is a malfunction of the brain. The brain is either injured as a result of an injury in TBI or as a result of an internal brain disease unrelated to injury.

Typically when one laughs, it is from the emotion of joy. When we cry, it is related to the feeling of sadness. PBA is not a psychiatric condition, but a neurologic condition. This means that it is due to a disease or injury to the brain and nervous system. The tears are not related to depression, but to brain illness.

If you or a family member are suffering from this and are isolating yourself because of embarrassment or humiliation, there is help. A neurologist is best consulted to review the symptoms and to evaluate medication options. Mental health counseling is an essential part of the treatment plan. Do not suffer in silence and alone. Reach out for help.