Depression is a disorder that affects millions of individuals every day including old people. Based from the studies made by the National Institute for Mental Health, elderly depression should be instantly given notice as this disorder may result to suicidal tendencies.
Suicide Rates and Depression
Studies made by Conwell and Brent indicate that there is a correlation between depression and high suicide rates among old people. Adults are more likely to suffer depression than young children. Contrary to the popular belief, depression among old people is not common especially when most of them have enjoyed family, career, and many achievements when they were much younger.
Aging does not mean limited activities
When people age, the physical function of the body is limited due to the various illness such as high blood pressure, rheumatism, and many more. This should not automatically lead to depression as there are many treatments and therapies available. In fact, doctors should advise the elderly patients to enjoy a normal lifestyle since they are now more free to pursue hobbies since their children are already adults.
Seek Medical help if depression is persistent
When a senior is feeling down more than normal, it is recommended to seek medical help. Relatives of old people should ask help from a mental health expert if these signs of depression manifest such as social withdrawal, changes in eating/sleeping habits, chronic bouts of sadness and thoughts about death or dying. Also, depression can aggravate other illness experienced by the elderly or it can delay recovery.
Available Depression Treatments
Even with all these issues related with elderly depression, there are many available treatments for depression among this group. One of which is a prescribed antidepressant from a psychiatrist once assessment on depression has been made on the patient. Medication that belong to the SSRIs (selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors) are prescribed by doctors for the elderly taking into consideration any other sensitive health issues there is a good tolerance for these medications. SSRIs can improve the chemical imbalance in the brain making the mood of a patient enhanced.
Psychotherapy is another recommended treatment option for the elderly. In this treatment method, old people can share their thoughts about death and dying to a psychiatrist who are well-trained to objectively handle such concerns. The sessions are considered therapeutic since most elderly people also need someone to talk with.
More importantly, mental health professionals can combine prescription drugs and psychotherapy to produce better results in combating depression among the elderly.
Fiona Clarkson can help you overcome Depression. Find out more on signs of depression at her website on depression among seniors.