• Fatigue
• Sleep disorders
• Physical aches and pains
• Eating irregularities
• Irritability
• Difficulty concentrating
• Feeling worthless
• Guilt
• Addictions
• Suicidal thoughts
• Sad and anxious moods

According to the National Institutes of Health, a thorough diagnosis is needed if four or more of the symptoms of depression persist for more than two weeks, or are interfering with work or family life. With available treatment, 80 percent of the people with serious depression, even those with the most severe forms, can improve significantly. Symptoms can be relieved, usually in a matter of weeks!

Depression is NOT a personal weakness. It cannot be willed or wished away, nor is it a lack of character, laziness, or something you can simply snap out of. Depression affects people of all ages. When it affects an older adult, there could be several causes:

• Brain chemicals not balanced
• Genetic factors (depression is a genetic biological illness)
• Long-term or sudden illness
• Medication side effects
• Personality/low self-esteem
• Losses and changes in life

It is safe to say that as we age, there are many changes in our lives. Is it possible to assist in the prevention of depression as we age? Specialists suggest that we foster friendships, develop interests and hobbies, keep the mind and the body active, eat nutritious foods, get regular check-ups, stay involved, and always use medications properly.

Is it possible to help ourselves if we are feeling less than enthused about living and life? Some steps simply might be to not set unrealistic goals. Set some priorities for yourself and divide large tasks into smaller ones. Become involved in activities that make you feel better and bring joy. Try not to make major life decisions without consulting others who may have a more objective view. Do NOT expect to snap out of depression and do NOT blame yourself for not being up to par.

Remember that depression is a treatable illness and not an acceptable way of life. It is not an inevitable result of aging. In the older adult, depression is often mistaken for dementia or just the normal aging process and therefore, goes untreated. A complete physical exam is a critical first step in helping the older adult. It is important that the physician be told of all drugs used by the patient, including all prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, supplements, and borrowed medications.

References

McWilliams, Peter. (1994). Do It! Let's Get Off Our Buts. Prelude Press: 8159 Santa Monica Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90046.

Sargent, Marilyn. (1990). Helping the Depressed Person Get Treatment. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, DHHS Publication No. (ADM) 90-1675, 1990.