Depression
Support for depression Guildford. Support for depression Woking.
What is it? Am I at risk of it? What are the signs?
What is Depression?
Depression is a serious mental health condition that affects the way we feel, act and think. As we get older, we can be at a higher risk of depression because we are more prone to the causes.
There are different types of depression, here are some of the most common.
Number 1 is Major Depressive Disorder. This includes symptoms lasting at least two weeks that interfere with a person’s ability to perform daily tasks.
Number 2 is Persistent Depressive Disorder. This is a depressed mood that lasts more than two years, but the person may still be able to perform daily tasks, unlike someone with Major Depressive Disorder.
Number 3 is Substance or Medication-Induced Depressive Disorder. This depression is related to the use of substances, like alcohol or pain medication.
Number 4 is Depressive Disorder Due to a Medical Condition. This depression is related to an illness, like heart disease or multiple sclerosis.
Other forms of depression include psychotic depression, postmenopausal depression, and seasonal affective disorder.
Am I at risk?
There are many factors that can contribute to depression, here are some common ones.
Number 1 are Medical Conditions, maybe, you have had a stroke or have cancer.
Number 2 is Genes. People who have a family history of depression may be at a higher risk.
Number 3 is Stress. This includes caregiver stress. For more information on caregiver stress please take a look our caregiver stress video which is packed with tips and advice.
Number 4 is Loneliness or social isolation.
Number 5 is Lack of Physical Activity or Exercise.
Number 6 is when we suffer with Functional Limitations that make daily activities difficult.
Finally we have Substance-Induced Depressive Disorder which is caused by addictions with things like alcohol, illegal drugs or prescription drugs.
Depression in older people may not be as obvious as it is with younger people. Quite often in older people, we simply think they are just more grumpy, and because older people are more prone to illness and physical disabilities, it’s easier for us to misdiagnose depression symptoms. Plus older people may be less willing to share feelings. They are used to being the protectors, they may not want to worry or burden us and they may just have a ‘get on with it’ attitude.
What are the signs of Depression?
Signs of depression are…
Persistent Sadness or anxious moods. Feelings of Hopelessness, guilt, or worthlessness. Irritability, restlessness, or helplessness.
Loss of Interest in activities that we would normally find enjoyable. Lack of Energy or tiredness.
Difficulty Concentrating or making decisions.
Difficulty Sleeping, waking up too early or even oversleeping.
Then lastly, and more obviously, self-harm, having suicidal thoughts or longing for death.
If you think that you are suffering with depression, please, please, please talk to friend or family member, reach out to your doctor or other professional such as a therapist. And in an emergency please call 999.
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