Seniors And Depression

Aging can be a depressing time because sometimes retirees may get the feeling of unworthiness. There are ways to combat these feelings with medication and self realization about the condition. Once the problem is recognized, then it might be easier to treat and control.

There are many causes for these feelings of depression and the symptoms are not always easy to spot. Sometimes a full time worker who was forced to retire can feel depressed because they cannot get accustomed to retirement.

The loss of loved ones and friends can also lead to depression. Sometimes illnesses and handicaps do not allow a person to continue to live a healthy and productive life. Treatments for depression include prescribed medication and psychotherapy. Psychotherapy is a way to help someone through their problems by working out ways to solve them or live with them. This is usually recommended for mild or moderate depression.

It is suggested that with severe or incapacitating depression, pain medication can be used and relieves physical symptoms very quickly. This can at least allow a person to live a regular fulfilling life until they can better cope with their problems on their own.

As part of the family, it is up to parents and siblings to help with identifying the symptoms of depression. It may be possible to avoid these all together by keeping busy with a hobby or a job. Even if other means are necessary like medication or psychotherapy, it is important to realize that the quickest way to recovery is a positive attitude and an open mind.