A majority of men and women aged 55-74 report that they are satisfied with their lives and currently in good health. During periods of depression may occur in the elderly, it is important to remember that it’s not a normal part of aging.

Depression is the most common mental health concern for older adults living in the 15 to 20 percent of older adults in the community. It is not a normal part of aging. Symptoms such as decreased energy, poor sleep and dealing with health problems should be viewed as potential symptoms of a treatable illness and are not a consequence of the aging process.

Treatment for depression works, but too many people remain undiagnosed and untreated because they do not recognize the signs and symptoms of depression.

Mental health experts agree on the following definition of major depression: enjoy

have symptoms for two weeks or längerDie people either depressed mood or do not seem capable of life . MDD considered when four of the following seven criteria are present: a change in sleeping habits (more or less as usual) A change in eating habits or, worse, low energy or fatigue problems to konzentrierenSie feeling worthless or excessively guilty marked restlessness or slowed movement thought of death or suicidal depression triggers can be defined as an imbalance of chemicals in the brain by stress and life events, including biological, psychological and social factors.

depression is no character or personality defects.

Many of the signs of depression may also indicate other diseases or problems – It is important to consult with a physician to determine whether your symptoms, depression or another medical condition

display <. p> Depression is often difficult to recognize among the older population, and it tends to be diagnosed.

Living with depression not only prevents older adults from fully enjoying their lives, but it puts more strain on her health, which can lead to other medical problems. It is also very difficult for their caregivers and places a burden on their health as good.

What we know is that there is no one cause of depression is unique in that each individual, which cause their depression, and what can a depressed Episode trigger. Some possible causes and risk factors are family history and genetics, brain chemistry, personality, serious illness, drugs and alcohol, and life events. Risk factors for severe depression, especially in older adults can, loss and grief, lack of social support, isolation, living in poverty, a caregiver, and abuse.

After depression might also reduce the risk of suicide in older adults, particularly in older men. According to the CDC, seniors account for more than 16% of all deaths suicide. Older adults who are older than 60 much more frequently at a higher risk of suicide than younger people. If you find that you have a friend or a loved one’s suicide is the feeling, encourage them to seek help from either a doctor, friend, crisis center or mental health agency.

Some things to keep in mind:

Keep a positive attitude. Remember that slowing down does not mean you have to have come to a complete stop. Chances are you are still able to do almost everything, the things you use, you may just need a little more time to learn and take themselves Tempo.Siehe your family doctor regularly. He / she can, then, with any changes or symptoms that require medical treatment you viel.Seien careful with your medication. As you get older, they can begin to interact differently with other medicines and affect you differently than before. Make sure your doctor knows about all your medications, including those from another doctor verordnet.Übernehmen responsibility for your own health. Do not hesitate to ask your doctor questions, offer no other explanation, it is because gefragt.Depression is a serious disease that is treatable. In addition, with one individual, the risk of suffering from depression or suicide is absolutely overwhelming for a caregiver. Although the supervisor is to advise and support to their loved ones they need to look after their own emotional, mental and physical well-being.

While all of us feel sad from time to time, sadness is not depression and it is important to remember that depression is not a normal part of aging.