Depression may be undiagnosed or misdiagnosed in some older adults because sadness is not their main symptom. They may have other, less-obvious symptoms of depression, or they may not be willing to talk about their feelings. It is important to know the signs and seek help if you are concerned.
If you have been experiencing several of the following symptoms for at least two weeks, you may be suffering from depression:
• Persistent sad, anxious or “empty” mood
• Loss of interest or pleasure in hobbies and activities
• Feelings of hopelessness, pessimism
• Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, helplessness
• Decreased energy, fatigue, feeling “slowed down”
• Difficulty concentrating, remembering, making decisions
• Difficulty sleeping, early morning awakening, oversleeping
• Appetite and/or unintended weight changes
• Thoughts of death or suicide, suicide attempts
• Restlessness, irritability
• Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not have a clear physical cause and/or that do not ease even with treatment
Source: National Institute of Mental Health
Good Neighbor Pharmacy Health Connection, March 2018
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