Depression is closely linked with getting older. It often goes hand in hand with aging because of all of the life changes that people start to experience. Many of these changes are some pretty major ones.
You might retire from a job that you’ve worked at for many years. This retirement can suddenly give you a lot of free time on your hands. Staying busy, the way that you used to be at your job, gave you something to look forward to and now it’s gone.
You may feel useless or listless. And if you took a financial hit when you retired from your job, then that can cause you to feel anxious and worried about the future.
Being alone as you age because loved ones move on with their lives or pass away can make you feel fearful and isolated. Losing your social circle, whether it was on the job or family leaving can impact your emotions.
Add health concerns to the mix and it’s no wonder that many people develop varying degrees of depression. As you age, there are some symptoms of depression that can present that you might not think are signs of depression.
Trouble concentrating and forgetfulness are attributed to dementia – but they can also be a sign of depression. Experiencing more aches and pains than usual is a sign – and so is feeling irritated for no explainable reason.
Not having any energy is a clue that someone may be depressed. Being tired, either sleeping too much or having insomnia – is a sign of depression. Feeling as if there’s no hope, no use in even getting out of bed, can be a warning sign.
So can just wanting to hide out from the world. If you feel that you’re supposed to be in the golden years of your life but it doesn’t feel that it is, that can also be a symptom of depression.
No one wants to discuss depression as they get older because of fear. People are afraid to discuss it because they believe that someone might think that they’re a bad person or that it’s part of a mental decline.
If you think you’re struggling with depression due to getting older, you can take some steps to help you feel better. You can get active with exercise or get involved with a hobby that gives you a social circle.
You’ll feel better when you have something to do. Reach out to someone and let them know how you’re feeling. You’re not the only one to experience depression as you get older.
If you know someone who might be experiencing depression because of getting older, you can help by reaching out to them. You can bring them meals or take the person out for something to do.
If the depression persists, you can help them find a therapist or encourage them to visit their doctor. Depression as you age is something that many go through – but it is treatable.
