Mental Health Depression

The majority of men and women aged 55-74 are satisfied with their lives and are currently in good health. Although periods of depression may occur in the elderly, it is important to remember that this is not a normal part of aging.

Depression is a mental health problem is most common for the elderly, affecting between 15-20 per cent of seniors living in the community. This is not a normal part of aging. Symptoms such as loss of energy, poor sleep quality and attention to health problems must be considered possible symptoms of a treatable illness and not the result of the aging process.

The treatment of depression works, too many people remain undiagnosed and untreated because they do not recognize the signs and symptoms of depression.

Mental health experts generally agree on the following definition of major depression:

1. The symptoms persist for two weeks or more
2. People have either depressed mood or seem unable to enjoy life.
3. Major depression should be considered only if four of the seven criteria are present:

• A change in sleeping habits (more or less than usual)
• A change in diet or weigh
• Low energy or fatigue
• Concentration problems
• Feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt
• Marked restlessness or slowed movements
• Thoughts of death or suicide

Depression can be defined as an imbalance of brain chemicals caused by stress and life events, including biological, psychological and social.

Depression is not a character or personality defect.

Many signs of depression may also indicate other problems or medical conditions - It is important to consult a doctor to determine if your symptoms indicate depression or another medical condition.

Depression is often difficult to recognize in the elderly and tends to be underdiagnosed. Living with depression not only prevents elderly from fully enjoying their lives, but it puts pressure on their health, which can cause other medical problems. It is also very difficult for their caregivers and places a burden on their health.

What we know is that there is no single cause of depression, each individual is unique in what can cause depression, and what can trigger a depressive episode. Among the possible causes and risk factors include genetics and family history, brain chemistry, personality, illness, drugs and alcohol and life events. Risk factors for severe depression, especially among the elderly, may include loss and bereavement, lack of social support, isolation, living in poverty, being a caregiver, and abuse.

Having depression may also increase the risk of suicide among the elderly, especially in older men. According to the CDC, seniors represent over 16% of all deaths by suicide. Seniors who are over 60 years are much more likely to have a higher suicide risk than younger people. If you think a friend or loved one is suicidal, to encourage them to seek help or a doctor, a friend, a crisis center or mental health agency.

Some things to keep in mind:

• Keep a positive attitude. Remember that the slowdown does not mean you have to make a complete stop. The chances are that you'll always be able to do almost all the things you used to, you just need to take a little time and learn at your own pace.
• Consult your family doctor regularly. He / she can cope with changes or symptoms that require medical attention.
• Be careful with your medications. As people age, they can begin to interact differently with other drugs and affect you differently than before. Make sure your doctor knows all your Medicate.