Common Symptoms of Depression
The More Symptoms You Have the more likely you are dealing with depression
Recognizing depression in the elderly starts with knowing the signs and symptoms . Depression red flags include:
- Sadness or feelings of despair
- Unexplained or aggravated aches and pains
- Loss of interest in socializing or hobbies
- Weight loss or loss of appetite
- Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness
- Lack of motivation and energy
- Sleep disturbances (difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, oversleeping, or daytime sleepiness)
- Loss of self-worth (worries about being a burden, feelings of worthlessness or self-loathing)
- Slowed movement or speech
- Increased use of alcohol or other drugs
- Fixation on death; thoughts of suicide
- Memory problems
- Neglecting personal care (skipping meals, forgetting meds, neglecting personal hygiene)
Depression Is Not a Normal Part of Aging!