Depression is a common mood disorder. Its major symptoms include persistent low mood, loss of interest or drive, and negative thoughts, etc. These symptoms will affect one's daily life, occupational and social functioning. People afflicted with severe depression may be at risk for suicidality.

Symptoms of depression:

If you or elderly persons around you have multiple symptoms of the above which persist at least for 2 weeks while affecting daily life, please seek medical assistance at once.

Causes of Depression:

1. Biological factor
   Depression is related to dysregulation of neurotransmitters in the brain, e.g. serotonin and norepinephrine. It can also be associated with other illnesses such as stroke, thyroid dysfunction, Vitamin B12 deficiency, etc.
2. Genetic factor
   People with a family history have a twofold to threefold increase in risk of developing depression but depression can also occur in people without such history.
3. Psychosocial factor
   
   • Predisposing factors: Stressful life events in childhood (e.g. war, loss of significant others, abuse, and illness, etc.)
   • Precipitating factors: Significant changes in life or difficulties in adjustment (e.g. illness, retirement, changes in family or living conditions, and loss of spouse, etc.)
   • People in lack of social support, e.g. living alone, having no relatives or friends are prone to depression

Treatment for Depression:

Depression is curable. Treatment options include:

1. Psychotherapy
   Clinical Psychologists utilise evidence-based treatment approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy, to help patients change their negative thoughts and behavioural patterns, learn mood management skills, as well as develop effective coping strategies to manage stress for relapse prevention.
2. Medication
   Antidepressants can regulate neurotransmitters in the brain for alleviation of depressive symptoms. For an effective treatment result, patients must follow doctor's instructions when taking medication.

Mood Management Tips:

1. Adopt a healthy lifestyle, i.e. adequate sleep, regular physical activities, balanced diet, fostering interest, as well as abstinence from maladaptive behaviours such as smoking, drinking, gambling and substance abuse, etc.
2. Manage stress in a positive way, e.g. positive thinking, learning problem solving skills, sharing with whom you trust and seeking for help, etc.
3. Do relaxation exercises (such as Progressive Muscle Relaxation Exercise) and Mindful Breathing
4. Keep contact with family and friends and engage in social activities actively

How can family and friends help elders with depression?

1. Do not take it lightly when they talk about suicide. Show your concern, keep them company and inform doctors at once
2. Encourage them to see doctor promptly and remind them to follow medical regimen
3. Accept their emotions and symptoms, listen to them patiently and offer them your care and support
4. Encourage and accompany them to engage in pleasurable activities. Assist them to establish and maintain social network