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Health & Fitness

Look For These 10 Warning Signs of Depression

Social Services at Niles Senior Center can answer questions. Doctors look for medical issues that can underlie the depression. Medications can be evaluated.

By Beverly Wessels, LCSW at the Niles Senior Center

          Some people think that “being depressed” is a normal reaction to aging and life loss. Prolonged depression, however, should not be dismissed as what people should “expect” as they age. It is a serious health care concern – not just a mental health issue.

          It is normal for people to grieve a life loss or feel anxiety over life changes. These same experiences, however, can be warning signs for depression -- the persistent feeling that life holds no opportunities for pleasure or joy. Losing a life partner/good friend, living alone, a new diagnosis of a physical illness, and alcohol use are some of the risk factors for developing depression.

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          According to the American Geriatrics Society (AGS), it is common for an older person to minimize or deny feeling depressed. The AGS suggests that friends and family stay on alert for the following symptoms that a loved one may be depressed:

v    Loss of interest in self care

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v    Failure to follow medical advice

v    Little interest in social activities

v    Feeling empty inside

v    Trouble sleeping and/or anxiety

v    Unexplained aches and pains

v    Changes in weight or appetite

v    Feelings of hopelessness about the future

v    Feelings of helplessness

v    Easily irritated and/or listless

v    Feeling that one is a burden to others

If depression is suspected, medical consultation and examination can look for medical conditions that may be contributing to depression. Physician follow-up may include referral to mental health specialists who can assist with counseling or medication evaluation.

The responsiveness of friends and family members is critical when depression is suspected. While a person’s ability to enjoy life can be greatly reduced by the burden of depression, current treatments offer hope for recovery.

If you’re concerned about a friend in the community, or have any questions about changes in your mood, please call Bev Wessels at (847) 588-8420. We would be happy to answer your questions.

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