By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - One in three stroke survivors battles depression. This is not surprising considering the dramatic effects on a person’s life. But, according to a new study from the University of Southern California, depression after stroke is linked to increased risk of death.

Researchers looked back at more than 10,000 stroke survivors over a 21-year period. They found that people who are depressed after a stroke have a tripled risk of dying early and 4x the risk of death from stroke, than people who have not experienced a stroke or depression.

This focuses on the importance of identifying and treating depression in your loved ones after a stroke.