Depression
When a person has a depressive disorder, it interferes with daily life, normal functioning, and causes pain for both the person with the disorder and those who care about him or her.[1] According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV), a manual published by the American Psychiatric Association and used to diagnose mental disorders, depression occurs when you have at least five of the following nine symptoms at the same time:
- A depressed mood during most of the day, particularly in the morning
- Fatigue or loss of energy almost every day
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt almost every day
- Impaired concentration, indecisiveness
- Insomnia or hypersomnia (excessive sleeping) almost every day
- Markedly diminished interest or pleasure in almost all activities nearly every day
- Recurring thoughts of death or suicide (not just fearing death)
- A sense of restlessness--known as psychomotor agitation--or being slowed down (retardation)
- Significant weight loss or gain (a change of more than 5 percent of body weight in a month) [2]
There are several forms of depressive disorders, but the most common are the following:
Major depressive disorder is characterized by a combination of symptoms that interfere with a person’s ability to work, sleep, study, eat, and enjoy once pleasurable activities.[1]
Dysthymic disorder is characterized by long–term (two years or longer) but less severe symptoms that may not disable a person but can prevent one from functioning normally or feeling well.1
Depression in the Elderly
Depression is common in elderly individuals and may occur alongside other illnesses such as cancer, dementia, diabetes or stroke. Life events such as retirement, the death of loved ones, or changing residence may also contribute to depression in the elderly. [3] For individuals who require home health care or hospital care, the rate of depression may rise to as high as 13.5 percent.[4]
Although common, depression is not a normal part of aging and should be taken very seriously. Studies have shown depression increases rates of heart disease and death by illnesses in older adults.[3] It also contributes to high rates of suicide in the elderly, particularly for older white men.[3]
Signs of depression in the elderly include those listed above. However, in older adults depression may also present itself as irritability, anxiety or excessive worrying, lack of physical care, hopelessness, helplessness, or an inability to experience pleasure.[5][6] Physical complaints including aches and pains or insomnia may also indicate depression in the elderly. [5] If you believe you see signs of depression in an elderly loved one, schedule a consultation with a physician for a screening including a physical and lab workup. He or she may suggest a number of treatments including talk therapy, nutritional supplements, or antidepressant medications.[5]
References
1. National Institute of Mental Health. (March 30, 2009.) Depression. Retrieved July 3, 2009, from http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/depression/complete-index.shtml#pub1.
2. WebMd. (n.d.) What is Depression? Retrieved July 3, 2009, from http://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/what-is-depression.
3. WebMd. (n.d.) Depression in the Elderly. Retrieved July 20, 2009, from http://www.webmd.com/depression/guide/depression-elderly.
4. National Institute of Mental Health (May 18, 2009). Older Adults: Depression and Suicide Facts (Fact Sheet). Retrieved July 20, 2009, from http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/older-adults-depression-and-suicide-facts-fact-sheet/index.shtml
5. Helpguide.org. (2008.) Depression in Older Adults and the Elderly. Retrieved July 20, 2009, from http://helpguide.org/mental/depression_elderly.htm.
6. FindCounseling.com. (2009.) Depression. Retrieved July 20, 2009, from http://www.findcounseling.com/glossary/depression-depressed-dysthymia.html.
