How to Ask for Help With Depression: A Guide for Seniors
Living with depression can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. This is how to ask for help with depression.
Are you experiencing a loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy? Do you have feelings of sadness and hopelessness or difficulty sleeping? If so, you may be struggling with depression.
As we get older, life can become more lonely and it may leave you feeling lost.
Living with this disorder can be challenging, especially if you don’t know how to ask for help with depression. You might feel it’s not worth reaching out to someone.
If this describes you in any way, keep reading. This article discusses depression, the symptoms, and how to ask for help so you don’t have to feel this way any longer.
What Is Depression?
Depression, also called depressive disorder, is a mental disorder. It’s common and is characterized by an all-encompassing sadness or negative view of life. Depression affects how you think and act, leading to various emotional and physical problems that interfere with daily functioning.
Depression can occur at any age; however, it begins more commonly as an adult. There are several types of depression, such as:
- Major Depressive Disorder
- Persistent Depressive Disorder
- Seasonal Affective Disorder
Signs of Depression
Depression can present differently from person to person. Typically, symptoms include:
- Feelings of sadness
- Loss of interest or pleasure in previously enjoyed activities
- Changes in appetite
- Changes in weight
- Trouble sleeping
- Excess fatigue
- Feelings of worthlessness
- Feelings of guilt
- Difficulty concentrating
- Thoughts of suicide or suicide ideation
How to Ask for Help With Depression
Depression as a senior is manageable if you seek treatment. A medical professional will typically prescribe an antidepressant and possibly a mood stabilizer. If you’re unsure of how to ask for help with depression, there are a few things you can try.
Find a Trusted Person
Identify a trusted person with whom you can confide in. This can be a family member, friend, pastor, etc.
Be Open and Honest
When you sit down and chat with a trusted person, you must be open and honest about your feelings. Ask them if they’re willing to help you through this difficult time.
Seek Professional Depression Treatment
If you need help seeking professional help, ask someone you trust to help find a professional or accompany you to one. A professional will have the necessary experience to help.
Help Is Around the Corner
Living with depression can be challenging as a senior, but it’s not something you have to battle alone. If you’re unsure how to ask for help with depression, ask someone you trust if they’re willing to listen.
You want to choose the right time to ask, and when they accept, be honest with how you feel. Professional help is strongly recommended wherever possible to assist with medications if necessary.
WelbeHealth provides full-service healthcare and personalized support to help you age well at home and in your community. Our Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) meets the changing needs of seniors, often at no cost. Many of our centers have support groups available to help you through your difficult times. To learn more visit: www.welbehealth.com/contact/
