Content courtesy of healthguide.org
September 20, 2010
- Abandoning or losing interest in hobbies or other pleasurable pastimes.
- Social withdrawal and isolation (reluctance to be with friends, engage in activities or leave home).
- Social withdrawal and isolation (reluctance to be with friends, engage in activities or leave home).
- Weight loss; loss of appetite.
- Sleep disturbances (difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, oversleeping, or daytime sleepiness).
- Loss of self-worth (worries about being a burden, feelings of worthlessness, self-loathing).
- Increased use of alcohol or other drugs.
- Fixation on death; suicidal thoughts or attempts.
If you suspect an aging friend or relative is depressed, you can:
- Invite your loved one out: Depression is less likely when people's bodies and minds remain active. Suggest activities to do together that your loved one used to enjoy: walks, an art class, a trip to the museum or the movies—anything that provides mental or physical stimulation.
- Schedule regular social activities: Group outings, visits from friends and family members, or trips to the local senior or community center can help combat isolation and loneliness. Be gently insistent if your plans are refused: depressed people often feel better when they're around others.
- Plan and prepare healthy meals: A poor diet can make depression worse, so make sure your loved one is eating right, with plenty of fruit, vegetables, whole grains and some protein at every meal.
- Encourage the person to follow through with treatment: Depression usually recurs when treatment is stopped too soon, so help your loved one keep up with his or her treatment plan. If it isn't helping, look into other medications and therapies.
