Depression is one of the most common mental health problems of older adults. The features of depression are the same for elderly people as for younger people, including feelings of profound sadness and emptiness; low self-esteem, guilt, and pessimism; and loss of appetite and sleep disturbances. Depression is particularly common among those who have recently undergone a trauma, such as the loss of a spouse or close friend or the development of a serious physical illness.
Often, depression makes its presence felt gradually, making it difficult to realise that something is not right. This leads to people trying to cope by themselves instead of reaching out for help. If left untreated, depression raises an elderly person’s chances of developing significant medical problems. If symptoms are present for beyond 21 days, and disturb your family, social, and professional life, it’s time to seek help.
Worried that your loved one or you might have Depression?
- Do you experience little interest or pleasure in doing things that you liked doing earlier?
- Are you feeling down, depressed, or hopeless?
- Are you having trouble falling or staying asleep, or are sleeping too much?
- Are you feeling tired or as having little energy?
- Are you experiencing reduced appetite, overeating, or considerable weight changes?
- Do you tend to feel bad about yourself – that you are a failure or experience feelings of guilt?
- Are you having difficulty concentrating on things or making decisions?
- Have you had thoughts like you would be better off dead, or of hurting yourself in some way?
If you have said yes to most of the above, we might be able to help you.
Treatments that can help you or your loved one:
