Depression is the leading mental
illness among seniors and handicapped people. It generally
doesn't hit suddenly or overnight and can sometimes go unnoticed
by family members that around on a daily basis.
People seldom notice depression
in themselves and often try to hide the depression from
others. If you or your senior family member has recently
encountered a loss due to death or a recent surgical procedure,
depression is very possible. Other symptoms include:
- Changed eating habits
- Lost interest in old friends
or hobbies
- Unwillingness to discuss
feelings
- Change in sleeping habits
- Excessive sleep
- General physical discomfort
- Irritability
- Other personality changes
If you or your senior family member has
regular or long term experience with any of the above symptoms,
you should take action now.
Depression isn't just feeling
blue. It is a physical imbalance that requires immediate
attention that may require both medical and/or counseling
intervention. Often brought on by life events, depression is
serious but very treatable.
Depression is a
very serious issue that is more prevalent than most people
imagine. If you suspect depression, you should contact your
family physician as soon as possible. He/she will generally
refer you to a psychologist or psychiatrist for further
evaluation.
Even though your family physician
will not generally get involved in the diagnosis, it is important
that they are involved. They can give important information
and further understanding to the psychologist and it will also be
important that your physician know of any treatment that is
prescribed by a psychiatrist.
