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~ by Richard Sgaglio
Many of today’s older adults grew up during a time when mental health issues were not as well understood as they are today. In years past, people didn’t discuss problems like loneliness or depression because many considered them a sign of weakness.
Now we understand that mental health and physical health are equally important to our well-being. Today, experts understand that mental health challenges are treatable. You can improve the quality of your life, or that of an older adult, by making sure you understand the warning signs and know where to turn for help.
How Many Suffer From Depression?
According to the CDC, it is estimated that 20% of people age 55 years or older experience some type of mental health concern. The most common conditions include anxiety, cognitive impairment, and mood disorders such as depression or bipolar disorder.
Even though older adults may experience mental health issues, they are less likely than younger adults to receive treatment for them. When they do receive treatment, it’s also less likely to be from a mental health specialist.
All of us can relate to feeling anxious—a work problem, a major decision, or a health condition can make you feel worried and anxious. But for older adults with anxiety disorders, that nervous feeling doesn’t disappear when the problem is resolved. Approximately 10%-15% of older adults—women more frequently than men—can experience severe anxiety.
We all experience sadness from time to time—it’s a normal part of life. However, depression, which is the most common of all mood disorders, isn’t simply a case of the blues. Depression can affect your daily activities. It can interfere with your sleep and can make you feel hopeless. Severely depressed people are also at high risk for suicide.
Symptoms of Major Depression
According to the National Institutes of Health, you can have major depression without realizing it.
Symptoms include:
Symptoms of Minor Depression
According to the Geriatric Mental Health Foundation, some 15% of older adults have mild depression symptoms—but even though these may not feel serious, minor depression can be troublesome. Symptoms include:
Although most cases of depression are diagnosed in young adults, depression can occur at any age. Certain people are at a higher risk for developing depression. If you are an older adult, you may be at a higher risk if you:
You may also be at a higher risk if you:
Where to turn for help?
If you think that you or a loved one may have depression, it is important to seek treatment. A person with depression cannot simply “snap out of it”—it is a medical condition that affects one’s quality of life. You are more likely to develop a physical illness if you have untreated depression.
The good news is that, in most cases, depression is treatable in older adults. The right treatment may help improve your overall health and quality of life. Some symptoms may start to improve within a week or two, but it may be several weeks before you feel the full effect of treatment.
Talk to Your Doctor
If you think you have depression, the first step is to talk to your doctor or health care provider. Your doctor will review your medical history and do a physical exam to rule out other conditions that may be causing or contributing to your depression symptoms. He or she may also ask you a series of questions about how you’re feeling. It is important to be open and honest about your symptoms, even if you feel embarrassed.
If other factors can be ruled out, the doctor may refer you to a mental health professional, such as a psychologist, counselor, social worker, or psychiatrist. Some providers are specially trained to treat depression and other emotional problems in older adults.
What are my treatment options?
The primary treatment options for depression include medication and psychotherapy. It is important to remember that doctors and therapists develop a personalized treatment plan for each individual. Different treatments may have to be tried before the right one is found for you – be patient and good to yourself during the process.
If you or a loved one is depressed, please seek help. Here are some resources:
National Alliance on Mental Illness
800-950-6264 (toll-free)
www.nami.org
Mental Health America
800-969-6642 (toll-free)
www.mentalhealthamerica.net
National Institute of Mental Health
866-615-6464 (toll-free)
www.nimh.nih.gov
The information in the above article is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.