Depression late in life: Tips to recognize when sadness is more than just 'the blues'
Posted:
24 Sep 2012 11:45 AM PDT
Suzann Ogland-Hand
Treating depression can enhance
quality of life at any age -- but sometimes symptoms of depression in older
adults are overlooked.
Dr. Suzann Ogland-Hand, a psychologist who specializes in treating older
adults, discusses ways to recognize signs of depression in the column
below.
By Dr. Suzann Ogland-Hand
By Dr. Suzann Ogland-Hand
Sleeping problems, sadness, forgetfulness, increased physical complaints,
withdrawal from friends and typical activities are behaviors we might accept as
we age -- but these symptoms are not a normal part of aging. They might be
symptoms of depression.
Everyone has experienced feeling "blue" or "down in the dumps." Sadness, loss
and grief are normal parts of life. But when the feelings become overwhelming
and interfere with a person's life, that's depression.
ONLINE SCREENING
In recognition of Mental Illness Awareness Week, which
is Oct. 7-13, online screening for depression can be found at the Michigan Psychological
Association Foundation website.
Depression is an illness, just as arthritis and diabetes are illnesses.
Depression can take many forms, including a variety of physical symptoms. Some
older people with depression do not feel sad at all, but are bothered by
constant feelings of tiredness or pains that just don't seem to go away.
Researchers also tell us that caregivers -- those loved ones involved in the
care of someone with a chronic and debilitating disease -- also experience high
rates of depression.
It is true caregiving can provide a lot of meaning to a person's life. Many
caregivers know nothing is quite as satisfying as the reward of seeing a loved
one get good care. At the same time, caregiving for a loved one can, on
occasion, be a frustration and a challenge. This is especially true when
caregiving occurs over a longer period of time.
Do you, or does someone you know, have any of these symptoms?
• Loss of interest in formerly pleasurable activities
• Loss of interest in formerly pleasurable activities
• Dissatisfaction with life
• Withdrawal from social activities
• Loss of energy
• Feelings of uselessness, worthlessness, hopelessness
• Irritability
• Great concern with health problems
• Sadness and crying
• Worry, self-criticism
• Difficulty concentrating and/or making decisions
• Loss of appetite and weight
• Wishing to die or having thoughts of ending life
If you think depression might be a problem you are having, discuss your concerns with a physician or mental health provider. They might suggest professional counseling or prescribe antidepressant medications.
The good news is that depression is a highly treatable illness. The sooner a person receives help, the sooner recovery can begin.
Don't minimalize the symptoms by thinking, "Oh, it's only depression -- I need to just snap out of it." These symptoms might indicate some other medical issue, and if the diagnosis is depression, it often responds well to treatment. By recognizing and responding to the signs of depression and getting help, your quality of life can be restored.
- - -
If you think depression might be a problem you are having, discuss your concerns with a physician or mental health provider. They might suggest professional counseling or prescribe antidepressant medications.
The good news is that depression is a highly treatable illness. The sooner a person receives help, the sooner recovery can begin.
Don't minimalize the symptoms by thinking, "Oh, it's only depression -- I need to just snap out of it." These symptoms might indicate some other medical issue, and if the diagnosis is depression, it often responds well to treatment. By recognizing and responding to the signs of depression and getting help, your quality of life can be restored.
- - -
Dr. Suzann Ogland-Hand is a geropsychologist and director of the Center
for Senior Care at Pine Rest. She specializes in depression treatment and works
with seniors, care providers and their families. To schedule an appointment with
Ogland-Hand at the Pine Rest Northeast Clinic, call 866-852-4001. For more
information, visit pinerest.org.
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Other Links of Interest
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Other Links of Interest
Depression in Later Life - a good .PDF discussion of Recognition and Treatment, its causes and cures
Self Assessment Online Screening - take an anonymous self assessment test
MHA Mental Health America - Depression Screener
SMH Depression Screener - Screens for common mood disorders including: bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, PTSD, depression, and a brief screen for adolescent depression.
AAFP - Depression in Later Life: A Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenge - Lengthy discussion on aging including helpful dianosis tables, charts, and options.
GMHF - Depression in Late Life: Not a Natural Part of aging - Discussion including a long list of professional contacts.
Columbia Psychiatry - Adult Late Life Depression Research Clinic - New York, New York
West Michigan Pine Rest - A regional mental health organization
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