Older adults may have untreated depression because they may think it's a normal part of aging. Or they may fear being stigmatized by a diagnosis of depression.
1. Depression is a natural part of growing older.
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Depression is not a normal part of growing old. But it is a common problem among older people.
2. One common symptom of depression is feeling sad for 2 weeks or more.
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Other common symptoms are:
Feeling worthless or helpless
Feeling grouchy or anxious
Having problems sleeping, focusing, remembering things, or making decisions
Not wanting to do activities that you normally enjoy
Not taking care of personal appearance
Refusing to get together with family and friends
Having persistent headaches, cramps, aches, pain, or digestive problems that are ongoing, even with treatment
Thinking of suicide or making a suicide attempt
3. Long-term (chronic) illness can trigger depression.
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Depression can also be triggered by the death of a spouse, other family member, or friends. It can also be brought on by retirement. An older person used to working may have problems changing to a different lifestyle.
4. Depression always has an obvious cause.
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It can happen to anyone for no clear reason.
5. Illnesses such as Parkinson disease or cancer can trigger depression.
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Some illnesses such as heart disease, stroke, or arthritis can mask depression symptoms. Studies have shown a link between certain chronic conditions such as depression and a higher risk for Alzheimer disease. But experts still aren’t sure if these conditions actually cause it.
6. Treatments for depression include talk therapy (counseling) and antidepressant medicine.
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Mild or moderate depression often can be successfully treated with just therapy if a person prefers not to take medicine.
7. People older than age 65 make up a large portion of suicides in the U.S.
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Suicide is more common in older people than in any other age group. Depression is often a trigger. Men aged 85 and older have the highest suicide rate of any group in the U.S. These suicide attempts are much more likely to result in death. That's because older adults plan more carefully, use more deadly methods, and are less likely to be rescued. Older adults are also more frail. So they are less likely to recover from an unsuccessful attempt.
8. Most insurance companies don't cover depression treatment.
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Most health insurance companies cover counseling and antidepressant medicines.
9. If not treated, depression can make the symptoms of other illnesses worse.
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And if not treated, serious depression can lead to suicide. That's why it's important to listen carefully if someone complains about being depressed or says people don't care. That person may be telling you they need help. If you or someone you know is in immediate distress or is thinking about hurting themselves, call or text 988.
You will be connected to trained counselors at the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This resource provides 24/7, free, and confidential crisis support. An online chat option is also available.
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Depression is a whole-body illness. It involves the body, mood, and thoughts. It is not a sign of weakness or a condition that can be willed or wished away. When you have depression, you can't "pull yourself together" and get better. Treatment is often needed and can be crucial to recovery.
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