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STORIES ON HEALTH
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Depression: Not A Normal Part of Aging
Statistics attained from National Institute of Mental Health
Who does depression affect?
It affects all of us. The
largest growing population
that is experiencing depression is the
population of older adults. It is
frequently the time of life in which
many changes are taking place.
Friends and loved ones are passing
on, retirement begins, and our friends
and family begin to relocate. It is the
misperception that the older population
"should" slow down. Many
times our loved ones may miss the
signs and symptoms of depression.
When this occurs, treatment is
delayed.
In the past, there was a stigma
associated with mental illness. Those
of us born during times of great crisis,
World Wars, Stock market crash and
the Great Depression were taught that
"big boys don't cry", and feelings
should be kept private. The message
was to "stay strong" which in many
cases left people feeling sad, lonely,
and isolated. It is these types of
ideas that have led to a delay in
getting help. Studies have shown that
on the average, treatment of depression
in older adults is delayed by as
much as 36 weeks. In these 36
weeks, many events can happen that
can intensify the feelings of depression
and the impact it has on our
friends and family.
Depression can lead to suicide.
Depression is deadlier than chronic
kidney disease, Alzheimer's disease,
more common than homicides. It is
twice as deadly as AIDS. Depression
is not a normal part of aging.
How do I know if I need help?
Ask yourself if you are having at least
5 of the following signs and symptoms
for at least two weeks or more.
- Depressed mood most of the day,
nearly every day
- Diminished interest or pleasure in
all or almost all activities
- Significant weight loss when not
dieting or weight gain
- Insomnia or oversleeping every day
- Strong feelings of agitation or
marked sluggishness
- Fatigue or loss of energy nearly
every day
- Feelings of worthlessness, inappropriate
guilt feelings
- Diminishes ability to think or concentrate,
indecisiveness nearly every
day
- Recurrent thoughts of death, suicide,
plan to commit suicide or recent
attempt
Depression is a treatable illness.
Many different options are available
to you such as counseling, medication,
and group support. Help is just
a phone call away. MonteVista's Red
Rock Behavioral Health is one
program solely dedicated to assisting
the older adult with their mental
health needs. Assessments are available
24 hours a day 7 days a week.
Please call 364-1111 for your free
and confidential assessment. Let
Red Rock Behavioral Health Hospital
help you fall in love with life again.
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