When Medical Illness is Complicated by Depression.
Serious illnesses take a toll on our minds as well as
our bodies. Individuals suffering from cancer, heart disease, Parkinson's disease,
hormonal disorders or stroke may also develop depression. Up to 35% of diabetics
suffer from depression. Feeling "down" for a while when you are ill or have been
hospitalized is usually normal. But if these feelings of sadness persist for
several weeks or more, you may be experiencing what's called "co-occurring" depression,
a serious but treatable illness that frequently accompanies another medical condition.
In fact, 25% to 50% of all individuals who have chronic or major medical problems
are at risk for depression. Studies also have shown that heart attack patients
who suffer from depression are up to four times as likely to die than those who
are not depressed.
Co-occurring depression is often not recognized and treated properly because some people mistakenly think that depression is a normal reaction to illness.
Also, symptoms of some medical conditions mask or mimic symptoms of depression. Certain medications can do the same thing,
According to the National Mental Health Association, symptoms that are common to depression and other medical illnesses include:
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Weight loss, sleep disturbances and low energy can occur in depression but also in diabetes, heart disease, cancer, stroke, thyroid disorders, vitamin/mineral imbalances and some neurological disorders.
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Apathy, poor concentration and memory loss are found in depression and in Parkinson's disease.
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Depressive symptoms may also include vague aches and fatigue that are present in many other conditions.
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Medications for high blood pressure, Parkinson's disease, and other medical problems
can produce side effects similar to the symptoms of depression.
Therefore, it is often confusing to the patient and family about what should be done about the depression symptoms. It is very important for a patient to discuss his or her concerns with the family physician.
The good news is that treatment for co-occurring depression is widely available and typically quite successful. In addition to improving your mood, treatment is often found to improve your physical condition as well, adding to your overall quality of life.
A thorough evaluation is essential if there's any indication or concern that a loved one is suffering from depression that is connected to a medical illness. An important determination your doctor will want to make is to be sure that the symptoms are not being caused by medication. If that is found to be the case, he or she may want to adjust or change the prescription. So make sure the doctor knows everything you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs. Your physician will also need to make sure that any medication prescribed for depression will not react unfavorably with medication already being taken for other medical conditions. Several new psychotropic drugs are less likely to cause an unfavorable reaction.
Helping loved ones recover physically and mentally is a large task. Senior Bridges has many resources to assist an individual with co-occurring depression. In addition to support groups and evaluation services, Sr. Bridges can connect you with a variety of community resources.
