Depression/Anxiety is a common problem in advancing years. It causes enormous human suffering and interferes with normal day-to-day life. It causes pain and suffering not only to the patients but also to those taking care of them. Much of this is unnecessary and avoidable with positive attitude and realism. Most people with depression/anxiety related disorder are unaware of the availability of treatment, though a majority of the sufferers can be helped. Depressive disorders are not the same as a passing sad mood and just cannot be wished away. Without treatment, symptoms last for weeks, months or years.
Depressive disorders come in different forms just as do other illnesses. These disabling episodes of depression can occur several times in a lifetime. A less severe type of depression involves long-term chronic symptoms that do not disable but prevent one from functioning at one’s full capacity or from feeling good. Episodes of major depression can also occur during the course of illness. The third type of depression is manic-depressive psychosis or bipolar disorder. It involves cycles of depression and elation. Sometimes the mood changes can be rapid, though most often they are gradual.

Symptoms:

Persistent sad, anxious or “empty” mood feelings of hopelessness and pessimism.
Feelings of guilt, worthlessness and helplessness.
Loss of interest in hobbies and activities that were once enjoyed, including sex.
Insomnia, early-morning awakening or oversleeping.
Loss of appetite and weight loss or overeating and weight gain.
Decreased energy, fatigue and being “slowed down”.

Thoughts of death or suicide and suicide attempts.
Restlessness, irritability, difficulty in concentrating, forgetfulness and indecisiveness.
Persistent physical symptoms that do not respond to treatment such as headaches, digestive disorders and chronic pain
Psychological make-up is an important determinant of vulnerability to depression. People with low self-esteem and pessimism, or those who are quickly overwhelmed by stress are prone to depression.

Diagnosis and Treatment:

A complete physical examination and psychological evaluation are the most important steps in diagnosing the presence of a depressive illness and its categorization. Certain medications and medical illnesses can cause depression and should be ruled out by examination, interview and lab tests. There are several treatment choices, which depend on the outcome of the evaluation. There is a variety of anti-depressant medications and psychotherapies that can be used to treat depressive disorders. With proper treatment, the patients certainly get better.

Helping The Depressed Person:

The most important thing anyone can do for the depressed person is to help him/her get appropriate diagnosis and treatment, and offer emotional support.
Do not accuse the depressed person of faking illness or of laziness or expect him/her “to snap out of it.” Eventually, with proper treatment, most depressed people do get better. Keep that in mind, and keep reassuring the depressed person that with time and help he/she will feel better.
Remain alert about the risk of suicide.
Encourage participation by the depressed person in pleasure activities and by providing him/her company

Where to Get Help:

Family doctor, mental health specialists and counselors in government or private hospitals and Non-governmental organizations providing mental health counseling and helpline.

Living Alone

• Living alone in old age is a reality. Some people outlive their spouses, and children may migrate. Many people are happy living alone but some become lonely and isolated. Living alone can be risky in illness. If you live alone, or you know someone who does, here are some points that you should consider:
  Are you happy living alone? You may want to consider other options, including moving to sheltered housing or moving into an old-age home.
  If you do want to stay where you are, certain changes can make your life easier and safer as you grow older.
  You must have a telephone. .
  Your home should have adequate basic security such as door and window locks and a door chain.
  Falls in the home are a common cause of injury among older people. Take all necessary steps to make your home a safe home. A number of precautions can be taken like railings on stairs, non-slippery floors, fixed supports in the bathrooms etc.
  Keep a stock of basic foods so that in an emergency you have enough supplies to last for three or four days.
  Pin details of your doctor and close relatives (address and telephone number) in an obvious place so that people know whom to contact in an emergency.
• Always keeps a card in your pocket giving your name, address, contact person in emergency, name of your doctor with phone number and address, your blood group, your chronic illnesses and allergies etc.
  In an emergency, the best people who help (and who may need your help) are those living nearby, so try to get to know some neighbors. If you arrange a daily telephone call or a quick visit to or from someone nearby, they will know when something is amiss. Be sure to let them know if you plan to be away.