Researchers utilized a survey of more than 60,000 people and a comprehensive mortality database. However, for depressed people with some anxiety, there may be a silver lining.

The research found that depressed people with anxiety were less likely to die than those with depression alone. Dr. Robert Stewart, who led the team at the Institute of Psychiatry in Norway, said that one of the big messages from the research is that a little anxiety may actually be good for you. Researchers explain that help-seeking behavior associated with anxiety may be the key.

Dr. Stewart explained,”It would certainly not surprise me at all to find that doctors are less likely to investigate physical symptoms in people with depression because they think that depression is the explanation, but may be more likely to investigate if someone is anxious because they think it will reassure them.”

Help with Managing Depression

If you suspect you’re depressed, talk with your doctor about how you’re feeling. You can even invite a friend or family member to go with you. Symptoms of depression include frequent and prolonged feelings of sadness, loss of interest in everyday activities, lack of energy, sleeping too much or too little, difficulty with concentrating and making decisions, thoughts of suicide, and feelings of guilt or worthlessness.

Many depressed people benefit from lifestyle changes like increased exercise. Therapy involving talking with a professional, often for at least an hour each week, is helpful as well. Some depressed individuals may need medication or additional therapy.

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Which is Worse: Depression or Smoking?

The researchers, from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, found many interesting points. The press release says:

compared to a sample of residents in the general public, those in foreclosure were more likely to be uninsured (22% compared to 8%), though similar health problems were seen among both the insured and uninsured

nearly 60% reported that they had skipped or delayed meals because they couldn’t afford food

Those undergoing foreclosure were also more likely to have forgone filling a prescription because of the expense during the preceding year (48% vs. 15%)

9% of respondents reported that a medical condition in their family was the primary reason for the home foreclosure

more than a quarter of those surveyed said they had significant unpaid medical bills.

Symptoms of depression

Here are some of the symptoms of depression that you may experience if you are having a depressive episode:

• persistent sad or irritable mood
• inability to sleep or sleeping too much
• no appetite
• agitation, restlessness
• inability to get moving
• lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities, including sex
• thoughts of suicide or death

If you have any of these symptoms and they persist beyond a week or two – see your doctor if you’ve not already. You could be suffering from a major depression.

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Many in Foreclosure Have Major Depression

 Depression can overwhelm both caregivers and Alzheimer’s patients during the course of this illness.  Often doctors will check to see whether depression is causing the forgetfulness and other symptoms typical of Alzheimer’s patients.  Also, depression can cause symptoms to be more pronounced.

Caregivers also have to watch that they don’t become discouraged by the situation so should seek help when they feel they are falling into a “black hole” of depression.  Those who have never cared for an Alzheimer’s patient, even your family members, may not understand the traumatic experience you’re going through.  Find professionals or other caregivers who can help you get through this time in your life. 

Also find those who can help you help the Alzheimer’s patient. 

I don’t recall going through depression while caring for my aunt and mother.  However, I often felt overwhelmed with all I had to do and often asked, “Why me?” (and my husband) when the caregiving was left to us.

What strategies have you used to keep from being overcome by discouragement and depression?  How have you helped your Alzheimer’s family member or patient? 

Share some ideas with us because I know there are caregivers who are reaching out for someone who understands so they can realize, “I’m not alone!“

(c)2008 Mary Emma Allen

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Depression – A Mental Health Concern for Caregivers & Alzheimer’s Patients