Depression can look different in older adults than many people expect. These are some of the questions we hear most often. This information is educational and is not a substitute for advice from your own doctor.
My memory isn’t what it used to be. Isn’t that just part of getting older?
Memory loss, trouble concentrating, and attention difficulties that make it harder to do things you used to enjoy are not a normal part of aging. While occasionally forgetting an appointment or a name can be related to normal aging, changes in memory, concentration, and attention that affect your life may be caused by an illness, including depression. Other symptoms of depression, such as low energy, depressed mood, and changes in sleep, may be mistakenly attributed to other illnesses or to aging itself, which can make it harder for older adults to get treatment. If you are experiencing some of these symptoms and think you may have depression, give us a call.
I don’t want to take antidepressants. What else can I do?
There are other options for treating depression, including psychotherapy. Many different types exist, including problem-solving therapy (PST) and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Some are brief (4 to 10 sessions) while others are longer and open-ended. Our research at the CREATIV Lab focuses on developing new treatments for depression, including new psychotherapies and technology-based care that we hope are easier to access and faster to show results. You should always speak with your doctor when making decisions about medication; if you are taking antidepressants but considering a change, please contact your doctor.
I don’t feel like doing anything anymore, and I don’t enjoy things the way I used to. What’s wrong with me?
A loss of interest in doing things, and getting less pleasure from activities you used to enjoy, are common symptoms of depression. We often think of depression as a sad, down mood, but a lack of interest in activities can be the main symptom of depression, even in people who are not experiencing significant sadness or low mood.
My problems feel unsolvable. How can talking to someone help?
There are many benefits to talking with someone about problems that feel unsolvable. Therapists and counselors have experience with many kinds of problems; they listen and help you find your own answers, without judging you. Keeping problems inside can make them feel even more overwhelming, while talking helps you sort through your feelings, put things in perspective, and release stress. Brief talk therapies such as problem-solving therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy look at how feelings affect thoughts, behaviors, and mood, and help you make positive changes. Structured therapies such as interpersonal therapy focus on your relationships, and open-ended approaches such as psychodynamic psychotherapy explore longstanding patterns over a longer course of treatment. These types of therapy can all be effective in treating depression.
If any of this sounds familiar and you would like to learn more, please contact us.