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January 2005 Monthly Health Topic In response to a quick-growing community need, in 2002 Weiss opened a brand new Geriatric Psychiatric Unit that provides skilled professional holistic care to older adults with depression, anxiety, cognitive impairment, and mood swings. One of only two such facilities in Chicago, the new geriatric psychiatry unit features new, oversized patient rooms, overlooking Lake Michigan. For more information, call (773) 564-5700 or visit Geriatric Psychiatry. Depression: Not a Normal Part of Aging Sandra Swantek, M.D. With all the talk about depression in late-life, you may think that old age and depression go hand in hand. Not so. In general, older adults are no more likely to develop depression than their younger counterparts. The story only changes when you look at specific groups of older adults. What Causes Depression? Genetics also play a role. Studies show that depression may run in families. A depressed parent, sibling or child increases the risk that you will develop a depression. The good news is that depression is a treatable disease. Treatment works. How do you know when you need help? After all, as you age, you face problems that could cause anyone to feel “depressed.” Perhaps you are dealing with the death of a loved one, a friend or a pet. Maybe you are having a tough time getting used to retirement. You might have a chronic illness. Older adults are incredibly resilient. Many grew up in the depression, lived through World War II, the Korean War, the Cold War and the troubled 60’s. They have experienced economic ups and downs, births, deaths, sickness, moves, job loss and retirement. Most older adults get through a difficult period of time; they grieve, feel sad or troubled and then get back to their normal lives. For other people, a single event such as an illness or a loss can bring ondepression. This illness often strikes people who felt fine but who suddenly find they are struggling with every day activities. They are worried about how the illness will change their lives. They might be tired and not able to deal with something that makes them sad. Treatment for depression can help manage the symptoms of the disease while improving their quality of life. For some people, differences in brain chemistry can affect mood and cause depression. Sometimes those under a lot of stress, like caregivers, can feel depressed. Others feel depressed for no particular reason at all. What to Look ForHere is a list of the most common signs of depression. If these last for more than two weeks, speak to your doctor. Depression can hide behind a smiling face. A depressed person living alone may briefly feel better when someone visits or during a trip to the doctor. The symptoms may seem to go away for a little while. But, when someone is very depressed, they come right back. Don’t ignore the warning signs. Left untreated, serious depression can lead to suicide. The suicide rate is increasing in older adults, particularly in older men living alone. Listen carefully if someone of any age complains about depression or tells you that no one really cares. That person may really be asking for help. Getting Help Depression is a treatable illness, just like diabetes or high blood pressure. For treatment, start with your family doctor who will check to see if your depression is caused by a health problem or medicine you are taking. . After a complete exam to your doctor may suggest you talk to a psychiatrist, psychologist or a social worker. The special nature of depression in older adults has led to the creation of a medical specialty -- Geriatric Psychiatry. Don’t avoid getting help because you are afraid of how much treatment might cost. The cost of avoiding treatment is much higher. Studies have shown that untreated depression leads to an increased risk of complications for other medical illnesses such as diabetes and heart disease. Often, only short-term psychotherapy (talk therapy) is needed. It is often covered by insurance. Several kinds of “talk” therapies are also useful. Regardless of a person’s age, it is never too late to learn better stress management, relaxation or coping skills. For some people, learning how to avoid negative thoughts can be very helpful. Getting better takes time, but with support from family, friends and treatment, you will get a little better each day. Antidepressant drugs are very helpful for some people. These medicines can improve mood, sleep, appetite and concentration. They may also decrease anxiety. There are several types of antidepressants available. Your doctor will choose a medication based on your symptoms and your current medications. Every medication can cause side effects and antidepressants are no different. Remember: The doctor needs to know about all prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, or herbal supplements you are taking. It’s good to take a list of medications to every appointment. A new diagnosis or medical problem should always be brought to your doctor’s attention. Take antidepressants and any other medication exactly how your doctor prescribes and on schedule.Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is a very helpful treatment for persons with life-threatening depression. This type of depression may include loss of appetite, weight loss, sleeplessness, severe anxiety or agitation or suicidal thoughts or plans. ECT is recommended when medicines can’t be tolerated or when a quick response can be life saving. ECT works quickly in most people and is given as a series of treatments over a few weeks. Help from Family and Friends Preventing Depression Resources National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) www.nimh.nih.gov National Mental Health Association (NMHA) www.nmha.org Reference |
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