Staying active

Depression is much misunderstood‚ yet it affects people of all ages. It is estimated that one in five people will suffer from depression at some point in their lives.

Being older doesn’t mean that you’ll necessarily become depressed. But if you do help is at hand. Many intelligent and creative people suffer from depression and yet make an outstanding contribution to life.

Episodes of depression can be triggered off by stressful events‚ especially those which involve loss. Sadly‚ older people are quite likely to suffer important loss.

Warning signs

• Losing a little confidence.
• Feeling ‘down’.
• Less concentration than usual.
• Sleeping too much or too little.
• Feeling tired all the time.
• Distancing yourself from other people‚
  especially those close to you.
• Feeling life is pointless.
• Not caring how you look.
• Physical aches and pains‚ sometimes
  with the fear that you are seriously ill.

Worried?

If you have felt some of the symptoms listed for most of the day‚ nearly every day‚ for more than two weeks‚ you should seek help.

There are many different ways to treat depression and it can be overcome.

Visit your GP

Tell them how you feel and that you think you could be depressed. Your doctor will probably ask you some questions and may prescribe anti-depressant pills if necessary.

Alternatively s/he may suggest a talking treatment‚ such as therapy or a self-help group where you can meet other people who have found ways to cope with their depression. There can be a great sense of relief in being
with people who understand.

It is helpful to remember that the vast majority of older people with depression do recover.

Further information

For more help and advice on depression please download a free copy of our active ageing leaflet at the top right of this screen.