Have you ever felt like your mom, dad, grandma, or grandpa has suddenly changed? Does he or she not smile and talk like he or she used to, is he or she always thinking, or is he or she just plain grumpy? We often think, "Oh... that's just how it is when you get older." But that's not always the case. This could be a medical condition that requires treatment. Today, let's talk about this depression that occurs in adulthood, or what we call `(Depression)`.
How is depression in adulthood different from depression in a young person?
There are actually clear differences between the two. When a young person develops depression, the symptoms are often clear. But depression in adults is a bit more complicated. The reason for this is that this condition often occurs together with other physical illnesses (for example, diabetes, heart disease, arthritis).
Imagine, sometimes it's hard to tell if an adult is having a side effect from medication they're taking for another illness, or if this is a symptom of depression.
Most importantly, depression in adulthood increases the risk of heart disease and death from other diseases. It also reduces the ability to recover from an illness (rehabilitation).
For example, research has found that depression is associated with an increased risk of death after a heart attack. Therefore, it is important to seek medical advice without ignoring even the slightest change in your loved one's behavior.
What are the hidden signs of depression in adults?
When we think of depression, we often think of feeling sad all the time. But adults can have different symptoms. They may not say "I'm sad" outright. Instead, they may show things like this.
| Characteristic | What does this mean? |
|---|---|
| Always saying you're tired | Feeling lifeless even without doing anything. |
| Sleep problems | Not being able to sleep at night, or sleeping too much. |
| Irritability or anger | I get angry over even the smallest things, everything feels like a hassle. |
| Confusion | It becomes difficult to remember things, and it becomes difficult to keep your mind in one place. |
| Dislike of doing things you used to enjoy | Things like watching TV, reading the newspaper, and playing with grandchildren become boring. |
| Body pain | Pain in the back, head, and arms arises for no reason. |
| Feelings of disappointment | Thoughts like "I'm useless now", "I'm a nuisance to everyone" come to mind. |
| Suicidal thoughts | They may become frustrated with life and say or hint things like, "I wish I were dead." This is something that needs to be taken seriously. |
Depression is a major cause of suicide, especially among older men. So if you see these signs, don't be afraid to talk about them. The best thing to do is listen to them and help them see a doctor.
What are the risk factors for depression in adulthood?
Certain factors may increase the risk of depression in adults.
- Being a woman.
- Being single, divorced, or having a spouse die.
- Decreased support from loved ones and family.
- Facing sudden traumatic events (e.g. death of a loved one, retirement, moving house).
- Long-term illnesses: Stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes, cancer, dementia, and chronic pain.
- Some types of medications or drug interactions.
- Changes in the appearance of the body due to surgery (e.g., cancer surgery, removal of a limb).
- Being unable to do one's own work and having to depend on others.
- Someone in the family has had depression before.
- Loneliness and social isolation.
- Use of alcohol or other drugs.
What are the treatments for this?
The good news is that adult depression is a condition that can be managed well with treatment . Never think, "It's too late now." There are several main treatment options.
1. Medications (Antidepressants)
There are specific types of medications used to treat depression. These medications, which belong to classes such as ``SSRIs'' and ``SNRIs'', improve mood by controlling chemical signals in the brain.
Important: Doctors are very careful when prescribing medications to adults. This is because they may be taking medications for other conditions, and these medications may interact with those medications. Therefore , never start or stop taking these medications without consulting a doctor. Your doctor will usually start with a low dose and adjust as needed.
2. Psychotherapy
We simply call this "talk therapy" or "counseling." Talking to a trained counselor or psychiatrist can help you manage your problems, feelings, and thoughts. This method is especially effective for people who have gone through major life changes and do not want to take medication. This method of therapy is often recommended along with medication.
3. Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT)
Some people may be scared when they hear this name. But ``(ECT)`` is a very safe and effective treatment method that is given to patients who are very severe, who are not cured by any other treatment, and who are especially at high risk of suicide. It is done under anesthesia and under strict medical supervision.
What are the barriers to receiving treatment?
Some attitudes in our society cause delays in seeking treatment for the elderly.
- Shame and fear of social exclusion: Many people are reluctant to talk about their mental health issues for fear of being labeled "crazy."
- Misconceptions: People ignore symptoms, thinking things like, "These are things that happen when you get older," or "It'll be okay once you get used to it."
- Physical symptoms: Because sadness manifests itself as physical discomfort (e.g., headaches, stomachaches), it can be difficult to recognize a mental problem.
- Reluctance to take medication: Some people are reluctant to take medication due to fear of side effects or cost.
Whatever these obstacles, you can be the best person to help your loved one. Listening to them with love, understanding them, and encouraging them to see a doctor can make a big difference in their life.
Take-Home Message
- Adult depression is not a normal part of aging. It is a treatable and curable condition.
- Symptoms are not always just sadness or tears. Irritability, insomnia, body aches, and confusion can also be related symptoms.
- If you notice a change in the behavior, speech, or daily habits of an adult in your family, don't ignore it. Talk to them in a friendly manner and encourage them to see a doctor .
- The right treatment (medication, psychotherapy, or both) can help them live happily and healthily again.
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