Depression in Caregivers - Don't Let the Blues Hang Around

Everyone gets the blues now and then. It's part of life. But if you feel little joy or pleasure after visiting with friends or seeing a good movie, you may have a more serious problem. Being depressed for a while without let up, can change the way you think and feel. Doctors call this "clinical depression."

Being "down in the dumps" over a period of time is not a normal part of aging or a normal symptom to caregiving. Depression is 3x more likely in persons who care for a memory impaired family member than with others in their age groups. And although common, medical treatment can help. Medication, or psychotherapy ("Talk therapy") can ease the pain of depression. You do not need to suffer.

>What Causes Depression?

There is no one cause of depression. For some people, a single event can bring on the illness. Depression often strikes people who felt fine but who suddenly find they are struggling with a death in the family or a serious illness. For some people, differences in brain chemistry can affect mood and cause depression. Sometimes those under a lot of stress, like caregivers, can feel depressed. Others become depressed for no clear reason.

People with serious illnesses, such as cancer, diabetes, heart disease, stroke or Alzheimer's Disease, sometimes become depressed. They are worried about how their illness will change their lives. They might be tired and not be able to deal with things that make them sad. Treatment for depression helps them manage symptoms of the disease, thus improving their quality of life.

Genetics,too, can play a role. Studies show that depression may run in families. Children of depressed parents may be at a higher risk for depression.

>What to look for

How do you know when you need help? Here is a list of the most common signs of depression. If you experience 2 or more of these symptoms and they last for more than two (2) weeks, see a doctor.

> An "empty" feeling, ongoing sadness, and anxiety

> Tiredness, lack of energy

> Loss of interest or pleasure in everyday activities, including sex

> Sleep problems, including trouble getting to sleep, very early morning waking, and sleeping too much.

> Eating more or less than usual

> Crying too often or too much

> Aches and pains that don't go away when treated

> A hard time focusing, remembering or making decisions

> Feeling guilty, helpless, worthless, or hopeless

> Being irritable

> Thoughts of death or suicide; a suicide attempt (>IMPORTANT -Anyone who experiences these feelings or has attempted to end their life needs immediate medical attention. Take these thoughts or actions seriously and seek assistance from a physcian immediately!)

Watch for clues. Take suggestions from family or friends serious. Don't ignore the warning signs. You may have incidents when you feel better briefly when someone stops by to say hello or calls, however, when you are depressed, the bad feelings come right back again.

>Getting Help

The first step is to accept that you or your family member needs help. Perhaps you are uncomfortable with the subject of mental illness. Or, you might feel that asking for help is a sign of weakness. Many people feel that they can just "snap out of it" or that they are too old to help. They are wrong.

A health care provider can help you. Once you get medical advice from your family physician, they should check to see if a current illness or routine medication is causing the symptoms. After a complete exam, your doctor may suggest you talk to a mental health worker such as a social worker, counselor, psychologist or psychiatrist.

"Talk therapy" is very useful. Antidepressant drugs can also help. These drugs improve your mood, sleep, appetite and concentration. They may take up to 12 weeks before noted changes occur. Be patient and stick to the medical plan from your health care professionals.

You or your family member do not need to feel bad. There are many websites and groups that offer more information on depression and caregivers. The following list may help you get started:

NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF MENTAL HEALTH

Information Resources and Inquiries Branch

6001 Executive Blvd., Room 8184, MSC 9663

Bethesda, MD 20892-9663

1-800-421-4211 for publications

www.nimh.nih.gov

DEPRESSIVE AND BIPOLAR SUPPORT ALLIANCE

730 N. Franklin St. Suite 501

Chicago, IL 60610-7204

1-800-826-3632

www.dbsalliance.org

AMERICAN ASSOCIATION FOR GERIATRIC PSYCHIATRY

7910 Woodmont Avenue

Bethesda, MD 20814-3004

301-654-7850

For more information about Alzheimer's Disease and area support groups, please call the Alzheimer's Association at (716)626-0600

Would you like information regarding the programs and services offered through ElderWood Senior Care? Please contact us at (716)633-3900.