Depression

What is depression?

Depression is a mood disorder that affects how you feel, think, and interact with others. It affects people of all ages. However, older adults are at greater risk of developing the mood disorder.

Depression is more common in people struggling with a chronic health condition. Most older adults have at least one chronic health condition. 

Older adults also experience changes in physical abilities that may make it harder for them to socialize or maintain their independence, which may also affect mood and lead to depression.

Despite the risks and prevalence in older adults, many struggling with depression go undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. Depression isn’t a normal part of the aging process or a normal reaction to chronic health conditions.

What are the symptoms of depression?

Depression symptoms in older adults may be overlooked when they coincide with the onset of a chronic health condition or life-changing event. However, depression is a disease, not a symptom.

Common symptoms of depression include:

• Ongoing feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or despair
• Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
• Lack of interest in activities
• Withdrawal from loved ones
• Irritability
• Anxiety
• Low energy
• Insomnia
• Loss of appetite
• Eating more than normal
• Thoughts of death or suicide
• Ongoing aches and pains
  

For a depression diagnosis, a person must experience some (or all) of these symptoms on a daily basis for two or more weeks. 

If you or someone you love is struggling with symptoms of depression, Pro Health Psychiatry Nursing Corporation can help. 

What happens during a depression consultation?

The Pro Health Psychiatry Nursing Corporation team takes a patient-centered approach to care. The specifics of a depression consultation depend on the patient's symptoms, medical history, and needs.

During a depression consultation, your provider conducts a comprehensive exam to fully understand her physical, emotional, and mental well-being. They may also interview family members and caretakers to get a better sense of their patient’s mood. 

How is depression treated?

The Pro Health Psychiatry Nursing Corporation team customizes depression treatment plans to match individual health and wellness needs. Treatment may include a combination of psychotherapy and medication management.

Through psychotherapy, the providers work closely with patients, helping them take a more active role in their health and well-being. They also collaborate with families, caregivers, and other healthcare providers to ensure patients get the additional services they need to manage their physical or emotional well-being.

With medication management, she helps find an antidepressant that eases symptoms without interacting with other prescription medications or causing uncomfortable side effects.

Depression is a treatable mental health condition and not a normal part of getting older. 

For help for your loved one, call Pro Health Psychiatry Nursing Corporation or schedule a consultation online today.