May Is Mental Health Awareness Month
While most people experience periods of sadness at times, depression is a treatable condition. It’s important to recognize that depression can occur in the elderly, but it is not a normal part of aging.
Mental Health Awareness Month
How do you separate general sadness from depression? Sadness is generally short lived, while depression is sadness (and usually other sympoms) that lasts for two weeks or more.
Symptoms of Depression in Older Adults:
- Persistent sadness
- Feeling slowed down
- Excessive worries about finances and health problems
- Feeling worthless or helpless
- Weight changes
- Pacing or fidgeting
- Difficulty sleeping
- Difficulty concentrating
- Somatic complaints (unexplained physical pain or gastrointestinal problems)
- Withdrawal from social activities
Treatment for Depression in Older Adults:
- Psychotherapy: ongoing talk therapy can be a source of support for the elderly
- Support groups: connecting with others that share similar struggles can be comforting and beneficial in establishing social support and a safe place to share
- Medication: Antidepressants can be prescribed to relieve the symptoms of depression under the care of a physician.
- Lifestyle changes: healthy eating habits, exercise and social support contribute to helping a loved one struggling with depression.
Support Resources:
- NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) Support Groups: https://namimn.org/support/nami-minnesota-support-groups/
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline #1-800-273-8255 or call 911 for emergencies.
- County Crisis Numbers:
Anoka County #763-755-3801
Carver County #952-442-7601
Dakota County #952-891-7171
Hennepin County #612-596-1223
Ramsey County #651266-7900
Scott County #952-818-3702
Washington County #651-777-5222