What to do
 | Stigma associated with depressive illnesses can prevent people from getting help. Most seniors and their families rely on primary care physicians or deny problems exist until they reach a crisis point that may result in suicide or institutionalization. Mental illnesses in older persons are highly treatable. Over 80 percent are likely to respond to treatment, which usually consists of a combination of medication and psychotherapy. But only 16 percent seek help from appropriate professionals. A willingness to talk about depression and suicide with friends and family members can be the first step in getting help and preventing suicide. |
A complete physical examination to rule out other problems is critical before a diagnosis of depression is made.
Other physical diseases (Parkinson's, multiple sclerosis, diabetes, thyroid disorders, certain viral infections, strokes, tumors) and certain medications (steroids, hormones, blood pressure and arthritis medications) used to treat those illnesses can mimic the symptoms depression; they can cause a chemical imbalance in the brain. Therefore, a thorough exam is extremely important, as well as a complete medical history and list of medications currently being taken (both over-the-counter and prescription drugs). Family history of depressive illness should also be noted, due to the genetic component of brain illnesses. Untreated or mistreated depression can result in suicide.
What to do if you see the warning signs of suicide
- Begin a dialogue by asking questions. Suicidal thoughts are common with depressive illnesses and your willingness to talk about it in a nonjudgmental way can be the push a person needs to get help. Remember, a suicidal person should see a doctor or mental health professional immediately. Calling 911 or going to a hospital emergency room are valid options. You can also call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK. Always take thoughts of or plans for suicide seriously.
- Don't try to minimize problems or shame a person into changing their mind, this may only increase their feelings of guilt and hopelessness. Reassure them that help is available, that depression is treatable, and that suicidal feelings are temporary.
- Get treatment. If a person is suicidal due to a real or imagined life-threatening illness, treatment of depression/anxiety is critical. Once pain, both physical and emotional, is alleviated, the risk of suicide decreases dramatically. If you feel the person isn't in immediate danger, acknowledge the pain as legitimate and offer to work together to get help.
- Follow through. Help find a doctor or a mental health professional, participate in making the first phone call, be available for doctor appointments, explaining medications and offering general emotional support.
Where to get help
- Family physicians, clinics and health maintenance organizationscan provide treatment or make referrals to mental health specialists.
- Mental health specialists like psychiatrists, psychologists, family therapists and social workers. Psychiatrists can prescribe antidepressant drugs because they are physicians. Other mental health specialists, however, often work with physicians to ensure that their patients receive the medications they need.
- Community mental health centers often provide treatment based on the patient’s ability to pay, and usually have a variety of mental health specialists.
- Hospitals and university medical schools may have research centers that study and treat depression.