All home caregivers are aware they carry a lot of responsibility on their shoulders. Because home caregivers have to focus a great deal of their attention on the needs of others, it's not uncommon for them to neglect their own health. Sometimes, the result of this neglect is a bout of flu or a bad cold. At other times, however, the result may be something less obvious, such as depression.

Depression is an increasingly common problem in the United States. Some 19 million people in this country are estimated to be living with a severe form of depression.

There are many causes of depression, including genetic and biological factors, but living in a stressful situation in which there are constant demands placed upon a person can certainly bring about feelings of depression.

What are some

signs of depression?

Depression affects different people in different ways. Some have what may be thought of as a “low-level” depression, a kind of sadness or heaviness that goes on and on. Others may experience depression in a much more intense way, with it coming on quickly and making a definite noticeable impact. Most people with depression, however, experience similar symptoms. These include:

• Diet differences: It's not uncommon for people experiencing depression to change their diets. They may begin eating either more or less than normal and will generally also experience weight gain or loss.

• Disinterest: Depressed individuals frequently take a “what's the difference?” attitude, even toward people and things that usually interest them.

• “It's never enough:” Depression often makes people believe all of their efforts are in vain: whatever they do, it's never enough or it's never good enough.

• Sleep changes: Home caregivers who are sleeping too much or too little on a regular basis may be exhibiting another sign of depression. Also, if a person just feels tired or worn out most of the time, this may be related as much (or more) to depression than to actual physical exhaustion.

• Bad thoughts: Frequent thoughts about death or suicide, especially long and vivid ones, may indicate depression.

• Touchiness: People who are depressed often find themselves “flying off the handle” at little things or getting overly anxious often.

• An upset body: Physical pains, such as headaches or stomach aches, that occur often and don't go away with normal treatment can sometimes be a sign a person is depressed.

Get help

If you have any of the above symptoms on a regular or ongoing basis, you may have depression and should seek help by talking to a doctor. Start by contacting your regular doctor for a physical exam to determine whether there may be any physical reason for some of your symptoms.

At the same time, schedule a consultation with a mental health professional (psychiatrist, psychologist, psychotherapist or social worker).

The good news is the success rate for those with clinical depression who seek help is very high.

Home caregivers not only need to be as healthy as possible, they deserve to be.

Julie Ann Anderson is the owner of Home Instead Senior care office in Rohnert Park; mother of two and passionate about healthy living at all ages. Having cared for her parents, she understands your struggles and aims, through her website, www.homeinstead.com/sonoma to educate and encourage seniors and caregivers. Have a caregiving or aging concern? She’d love to hear from you at 586-1516 anytime.