Depression-
For Resources on Depression Click Here
For More Information about Depression Click Here
For Information On Caregiving Click Here
For Information on Holiday Blues Click Here
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This is a fairly common disorder but is not a normal part of the aging process. It can and should be addressed.
Things You Should Know:
Depression
- may be overlooked by caregivers and providers
- may be associated with medical problems (e.g., cancer, heart
conditions, diabetes, etc.), surgical procedures, trauma( ex.- car
accident, loss of a spouse, etc.)
- may diminish an individual's ability to recover from illness/accident
- may increase the risk of suicide (higher for elders than any other age group)
- may be confused with bereavement or grief (a reaction to a specific loss)
Some Signs or Symptoms May Include:
- having more or less sleep
- eating more (with weight gain) or less (with weight loss)
- loss of energy
- loss of pleasure in ordinary activities
- difficulty making decisions
- persistent low mood or apathy
- low self-esteem
- expressions of hopelessness and /or helplessness
- thoughts about dying, expressing desire to die, and/or making suicide attempt(s)
- feels irritated or annoyed by little things
- relationships with family and/or friends may be diminished and/or distant
Symptoms should persist for two weeks or more and may occur
continuously or in cycles for years. Some individual symptoms may not
reflect depression at all (could be a medical illness, medication
problem, etc.). The presence of four or more symptoms can be a key
indicator.
In any case don't wait until you are sure. Contact a professional to get an assessment and to identify appropriate steps.
Depression is Treatable
Treatment Choices may Include:
- Counseling( often with a social worker, nurse, psychologist, and at
times with a psychiatrist). There are many forms of counseling.
- Medications. There are many choices and you should ask a physician
which one makes sense. A medication (and the dosage, frequency, etc.)
may for one individual but not another. Some people will have to try
different medications before finding one that works. Many will respond
effectively.
- A combination of counseling and medications works well for many.
- Electroconvulsive treatment can be successful and appropriate for
some but only with a physician's involvement and participation. Today,
this can be a safe choice for the right individual.
- Hospitalization can be useful on a short-term basis.
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