Active Adults and Depression Awareness

Whether we’ve already retired, are looking forward to doing so in the near future, or anticipate a life change – such as changing careers, volunteering, or moving to a new city – one of the things we may not anticipate is the stress that accompanies these exciting changes.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) urge individuals to be aware that stress is a major contributor to anxiety and depression, the symptoms of which are often dismissed, especially in people 55 years and over.

Risks for Depression

• Family History – if people within your family have suffered from depression, your risk is increased as well.
• Personal History – if you suffered from depression in your younger years, you stand a higher risk of developing depression as an older adult.
• Stress – any stressful situation may trigger depression, including loss of a family member or loved one, an illness, or serving as a caregiver for a family member or loved one.
• Ischemia – also known as “vascular depression,” is the stiffening of blood vessels, which may prevent adequate blood flow to the brain and other organs, increasing your risk of depression, heart disease, or stroke.

Mental health professionals remind everyone to understand that depression does not always mean that the sufferer is sad. In fact, many symptoms are often attributed to other health issues or medications, which may contribute to depressive episodes.

Symptoms of Depression

• Changes in eating or sleeping habits – eating too much or too little; trouble falling or staying asleep, or sleeping too much.
• Changes in Feelings – such as guilt, helplessness, or worthlessness.
• Changes in Energy Level – decreased energy or fatigue; or restlessness and irritability.
• Physical Symptoms – headaches, body aches, digestive problems, or other complaints, which do not have clear physical causes and are not corrected by traditional treatment methods.

Because someone suffering from depression rarely recognizes the extent to which they are affected, health experts urge friends, family, co-workers, and others, to take note of physical or emotional changes, and to intervene if necessary to ensure prompt and proper treatment.

Contact the National Institute of Mental Health at 866-615-6464 or nimh.nih.gov or the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 800-273-8255 or suicidepreventionlifeline.org.

Windsong communities are designed to meet and exceed the changing needs of Active Adults while maintaining the standards of luxury to which our home buyers are accustomed. Each community is also created to encourage Neighbors-As-Friends living, outdoor activities, and pursuing activities that promote a healthy physical and mental lifestyle.

Welcome to Windsong – Where Life’s A Breeze!