By Latha Raja Shankar, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico
As we age, our physical, emotional, and social well-being undergo significant changes that can make us more susceptible to feeling “down,” or sad. Typically, these feelings are fleeting and aren’t particularly disruptive to our daily lives. However, when these feelings persist over time, interfering with daily functioning or impairing our ability to enjoy life, it may be more than a temporary downturn in mood.
What is depression?
Depression is not a personal weakness, character flaw, or even a normal part of getting older. It’s a medical condition that can be effectively treated.
In older adults, depression can be triggered by physical health issues, chronic pain, social isolation, grief or loss, as well as by the effects of medication. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of depression is essential for early intervention and support.
Some common indicators of depression include:
- Persistent feelings of sadness or emptiness
- Lack of motivation or interest in previously enjoyed activities
- Significant changes in appetite or weight
- Difficulty sleeping or excessive sleeping
- Fatigue or loss of energy
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide
It’s important to note that not everyone will experience the same signs and symptoms, and some symptoms may overlap with other medical conditions or medication side effects.
When to seek help
The stigma associated with mental health disorders sometimes discourages people from seeking treatment, contributing to the underdiagnosis and undertreatment of depression among seniors.
But it’s important to understand that there are options that have been shown to be effective for older adults, including therapy, medication, or a combination of both.
Once you have decided to seek help, a great place to start is your primary physician. Your doctor can often refer you to a professional specializing in mental health concerns.
Mental health professionals are trained to identify and treat depression, and they can guide and support you through the recovery process. Consider engaging with support groups and community resources that can help to connect you with peers who may be experiencing similar challenges.
It can be difficult to recognize when it’s time to ask for help with depression – but it is possible to recover and heal from it. Recognizing the signs and seeking professional support can start you down the path toward healing. Learn more about healthy living at connect.bcbsnm.com.
If you have a health question that you would like to be considered in Ask a Health Care Professional, please email [email protected]. BCBSNM will select questions that may appear. Questions will not be personally answered. The opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the author and not necessarily those of BCBSNM. This column is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care.
