Depression is a growing problem among senior citizens, and it may be due to the lack of interaction that we all have with our friends and family. Depression is not something that should be taken lightly and can result in many negative outcomes for those who suffer from depression. Depression causes feelings of sadness, but these feelings go beyond having an occasional sad day. Depression can lead to withdrawal from daily activities, a loss of appetite and weight, sleep disturbances, an inability to take care of one’s self or children properly, and suicide.
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How to Overcome Depression
Depression is something that needs to be overcome in order for seniors to have a happy life with their family. Depression can take over your life if not properly handled, but with the right support you will have no problem overcoming depression. Depression is an imbalance of chemicals in the brain which causes feelings of sadness and more severe cases can cause delusions or hallucinations. Depression can also lead to social isolation which only furthers the depressive attitude, so it is important for seniors suffering from depression to find ways to get out of their house and interact with people on a more regular basis.
1. Depression is Not Normal
Many people think that depression is just something normal with getting old, but this is not true. Depression can cause seniors to withdraw from their family and friends which will only lead to further feelings of loneliness and isolation. Depression does affect many individuals over the age of 65; 9% experience some form of major depression throughout their lives, but this does not mean that it is something you should get used to. Depression is a heightened state of sadness and despair that does need immediate attention before furthering into more severe cases of depression.
2. Exercise regularly
Regular exercise is one of the best ways to overcome depression. Exercise releases endorphins which are natural chemicals that make you feel good about yourself. Regular exercise not only helps with feelings of depression but also helps prevent other health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Exercising does require a little bit more effort than usual due to changes in your daily routine but it will be well worth it once you see the results.
3. Socialize Regularly
Interacting with others can help reduce feelings of depression because interacting with other people provides you with company, someone to talk to or just an activity for seniors to take part in during their day. Interaction takes many forms whether this is listening to others at a senior center, volunteering in the community or even just having a conversation with others. Keeping busy by socializing will help seniors stay healthy and happy in their homes.
4. Eat Healthy
Dieting when feeling down can lead to further feelings of depression if proper dietary needs are not met because you are left with less energy for other activities such as exercise or socializing. Changing your diet around can also help prevent future health problems such as obesity and cardiovascular disease which usually stem from improper diets.
Seniors need to remember to take care of themselves so they can enjoy life with their family. Being active in life will help seniors to overcome depression and live a healthier, happier life with their family.
5. Keep up with your hobbies
If you are suffering from depression it is important that you keep up with the things that you enjoy doing. Depression can cause seniors to lose interest in activities they used to love, which will only lead to further feelings of isolation and sadness. Making the effort to keep up with your hobbies will help you feel better about yourself and lift feelings of depression.
6. Consider seeking professional help
Depression can become severe in senior citizens which is why it’s important to seek out professional help if the feelings of isolation and sadness begin to take over your life. Depression can cause you to lose interest in things that once brought enjoyment, so seeking the help of a mental health specialist will give you an outlet for your feelings of sadness and hopelessness.
7. Keep track of your progress
It might be difficult to cope with depression on a regular basis, but keeping track of how you’ve been doing will allow you to identify what works and what doesn’t work when it comes down to treating your depression.
8. Talk about how you feel
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by negative thoughts and emotions then might be time to consider talking to a family member or friend you can trust about how you feel.
9. Join a Support group
Getting together with people that are struggling with feelings of sadness and hopelessness just like you will allow for an easier time coping with depression.
10. Get proper rest
Depression can cause seniors to lose their appetite which leads to weight loss, but making sure you get enough sleep each night will help your mind and body get the rest it needs to function properly. Depression causes people to think they don’t need food or water, but getting enough sleep will tell your body that it needs adequate rest to function properly.
