Depression - Indicator of Mental Disorder, Not a Normal Sign of Aging

1. Depression Depression - - Indicator of Mental Disorder, Not a Normal Sign of Aging Indicator of Mental Disorder, Not a Normal Sign of Aging “I think the saddest people always try their hardest to make people happy because they know what it’s like to feel absolutely worthless and they don’t want anyone else to feel like that.” – Robin Williams Depression is a medical condition that can take anyone into its clutches irrespective of his or her age, sex, ethnicity and social status. The Mental Health America has highlighted the fact that more than 19 million Americans suffer from depression in a year, and over 2 million of the 34 million senior citizens, i.e. adults aged 65 or more, struggle with some form of depression. In many instances, depression is synonymous with losing interest in activities that the individual used to enjoy earlier along with frequent yet sporadic encounters with the overwhelming feelings of helplessness and hopelessness. When depression becomes pronounced, it starts affecting all aspects of an individual’s life. Besides diminishing one’s energy level and appetite, depression has numerous repercussions on relationships, performance at work and school, etc. It is a common practice to term depression as an integral element of aging. Due to such a generalization, people do not heed to many of the warning witnessed people getting on in years. However, the matter of the fact is that depression is not a normal part of aging, but the prevalence of depression in older adults may mislead others to believe otherwise. signs among Oftentimes, older adults experience the symptoms of depression but fail to recognize the disorder. Due to the increased isolation and feeling of being judged, older adults are generally unable to share their innate fears and inhibitions. In addition, sadness is most often not the main symptom reported by older adults grappling with depression, which can increase the risk of the condition being underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed. Some of the leading symptoms of depression among elderly include arthritis pain, headaches, etc. Chronic diseases, poor metabolism up depressive symptoms www.sovhealth.com

2. The decline of cognitive functioning is not always a result of aging, but it may signal the onset of depression among older adults. Depression in older adults can develop and progress differently compared to other age groups. In some cases, one develops depression due to the presence of a chronic condition, such as diabetes, cancer, dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, etc. Depression can also develop as a side effect of medications. Older adults on multiple medications are particularly at risk of experiencing the psychological symptoms of depression. Although prescribed medications can affect individuals of all age groups, their effects are particularly stronger in older adults because their bodies are slower at metabolizing and breaking down drugs. There are also various reasons why depression may be neglected in the elderly population and why older adults are reluctant to seek help. Besides the reasons for misdiagnosis and underdiagnosis mentioned above, other factors like failure to realize that some of their physical ailments may emanate from depression. Susceptibility level among older adults Even among older adults, there are individuals whose susceptibility to depression is higher than others. Some of the risk factors responsible for triggering depression among the elderly are: Presence of a medical condition or a disability Gender A history of substance abuse or a family history of depression Stressful experiences, such as loss of a partner, divorce, reduced income after retirement or taking care of a loved one with a chronic medical condition. When people start aging, they are bound to experience many personal hardships and losses, especially due to the loss of a loved one or a close person who played an active part in their lives. Similarly, loss of independence, mobility, health and career can bring about similar changes in a person’s psyche. When grieving individuals are diagnosed with psychiatric disorders, it can be a difficult task to distinguish between grief and depression. Although grieving is a normal part of life, the persistence of such feelings for a long time increases the risk of developing depression. Depression not a character flaw If you or your loved one fear that the symptoms of depression are at play, it is important to seek medical help. It is a treatable condition and individualized interventions help one in regaining health and enjoying a quality life. Sovereign Health offers tailor-made intervention plans for those grappling with depression, including therapies for depression, and other mental disorders. We offer personal and group psychotherapy along with medications at our state-of-the-art treatment centers for depression that specialize in delivering evidence- based intervention plans. Call us at our 24/7 helpline number 866-698-4295 to know more about the comprehensive treatment plans near you. www.sovhealth.com