From the Parish Nurse...

DEPRESSION

Depression is a serious illness that requires medical attention. It occurs inmany older adults along with
other illnesses, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and endocrine problems.  Depression is not a character flaw or moral weakness, but rather, it may be due to a chemical imbalance in the brain. To diagnose it, the doctor has to rule out other conditions that can mimic depression.

Two hallmarks of depression are: loss of interest and pleasure in normal daily activities and feelings of
sadness, hopelessness or crying spells. Also, most of the following symptoms must be present nearly every day, for at least two weeks: sleep disturbances, unintentional weight change-gain or loss, impaired thinking or concentration, agitation or slowness of body movements, fatigue, low self-esteem, thoughts of death and less interest in sex.

Depression can also cause physical complaints, such as generalized itching, blurred vision, dry mouth,
excessive sweating, indigestion, headache, backache, constipation or diarrhea. People in depression may not recognize their symptoms. Or they may be embarrassed about it or just think their situation is hopeless.

Their depression affects others too. We should not be too pushy or insensitive when we encourage them to see a doctor. Don't tell them to snap out of it, don't tell them to smile more, or to just get over it Don't say "I know how you feel". Don't give solutions. Don't ask too many intrusive questions. These patients often don't have the energy to discuss their symptoms.

Listen if they want to talk. Give specific suggestions about what you're willing to do and ask if it's OK if you go ahead and do them, such as mowing the lawn. Remind them of their good qualities. Don't force them into doing something. Supporting someone with depression isn't easy. It's important as a support person to share your feelings with a support group or friend.

Medication can relieve symptoms in most people with depression. But it may take 1-2 months before you will notice improvement Sometimes the doctor has to order a combination of drugs to get a response. The effectiveness of a drug varies with each individual.

NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) has a support group that meets in Zurnbrota twice a month for people recovering from serious mental illness. It is called C.A.R.E. (Consumers, Advocating, Recovery through Empowerment) and allows people to share experiences and learn from each other in a confidential environment. They meet the second and fourth Thursdays 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. Call Gayle at 507-824-2448 for more information. Support groups are very important for both patients and care-givers, family, or any other significant person.

Helen Aase, R.N.