December 20, 2017
Depression is Not a Normal Part of Aging
Depression is a true and treatable medical condition, not a normal part of aging. According to the Center on Disease Control, older adults are at an increased risk for experiencing depression.
How do I Know if it’s Depression?
- Someone who is depressed has feelings of sadness or anxiety that lasts for weeks at a time. He or she may also experience:
- Feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness and/or helplessness
- Irritability, restlessness
- Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable
- Fatigue and decreased energy
- Difficulty concentrating, remembering details and making decisions
- Insomnia, early-morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping
- Overeating or appetite loss
- Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts
- Persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not get better, even with treatment
Most older adults see an improvement in their symptoms when treated with antidepression drugs, psychotherapy, or a combination of both. If you are concerned about a loved one being depressed, offer to go with him or her to see a health care provider to be diagnosed and treated.
If you or someone you care about is in crisis, please seek help immediately
- Call 911
- Visit a nearby emergency department or your health care provider’s office
- Call the toll-free, 24-hour hotline of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (1-800-273-8255); TTY: 1-800-799-4889 to talk to a trained counselor.
For more information, visit the CDC website at https://www.cdc.gov/aging/mentalhealth/depression.htm.