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Health
Problems of the Elderly |
Depression
It is normal
to experience emotional changes. However, unduly severe pessimism or sadness
may be an indication of illness ------ depression.
Causes of depression:
- Familial
and genetic influences
- Life/
work stress
- Interpersonal
problems
- Maladaptive
stress coping strategies (e.g. refusing to face problem, evading problem,
using alcohol or medication to numb oneself, being pessimistic, etc.)
- Lack
of social support
Common signs and symptoms of depression :
(When
they are persistent for over two weeks and affect normal daily functioning)
A. Emotional:
- Sad/
depressed mood
- Loss
of interest in ordinary activities or hobbies
- Negative/
pessimistic thinking
- Feelings
of helplessness, hopelessness, guilt
- Nervousness,
irritability, anxiety
B. Physical:
- Fatigue/
loss of energy
- Significant
change in appetite
- Significant
weight gain or loss
- Sleep
disturbances
- Reduced
sex drive
- Vague
somatic complaints without medical cause (e.g. headache, stomach ache,
chronic ache and pain)
C. Cognitive:
- Forgetfulness
- Difficulty
in concentrating
- Diminished
ability to think
- Loss
of self-esteem
- Indecisiveness
- Inappropriate
self-blame and guilt
- Suicidal
thought
D. Behavioral:
- Withdrawal
from social activities
- Psychomotor
agitation and/ or retardation
- Untidy
or disheveled physical appearance
- Low in
energy, inability to enjoy life
- Failure
to fulfill duties
Treatment of depression:
- Medication
- Psychotherapy
- Electroconvulsive
therapy (ECT)
Self-help:
- Regular
exercise
- Develop
interests/ hobbies
- Active
social life
- Good
dietary/ eating habits
- Good
sleep habits
- Adaptive
stress coping strategies (e.g. facing source of stress, sharing worries
with family and friends)
- Positive
thinking and positive attitude towards life's difficulties
Depression,
if left untreated, affects both physical and mental health, or worse,
may lead to suicide. Therefore seek help if in doubt; and persuade those
who are depressed to get help.
Related topics
Mental
Health
Stress
in the Elderly
Suicide
Prevention
Reference
:
Resource
Book on Psychosocial Health Promotion in the Elderly (Traditional
Chinese Only)
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