HealthInfo Canterbury
Depression in older people
Depression is not a normal part of ageing and it is not a character weakness. It is a medical illness for which there are effective treatments, no matter what your age.
The symptoms of depression in older people can be similar to dementia and other physical illnesses, and a medical assessment is always recommended. Some illnesses that affect older people (for example, stroke, Parkinson disease, and so on) can put older people more at risk of depression, as can social factors such as isolation, loneliness, lack of independence, income, or self-worth.
You may like to try this online test for depression.
Often, older people with depression do not seek help, but depression is much easier to deal with if it is dealt with quickly. It helps to understand what can cause it and ways of getting through it.
Talk to your GP or practice nurse about how you are feeling. Remember that talking about your mental health is no different than talking about a physical problem. You may need to have several appointments in case your doctor needs to rule out other conditions.
In some cases, your doctor might advise referral to a specific service for older people. They may even send someone out to your home to talk with you.
Self-care for depression in older people
- Read about self-care for depression. This includes enjoyable physical activity, eating and sleeping well, staying social, joining a support group, and much more. Ask your GP or Age Concern for help with finding a support group, social group, or exercise group to join.
- Read about ways of getting help for depression. These include online courses, talk therapy, medications and specialist therapies.
- Being lonely and separated from others can make you feel depressed. Read more about how to overcome loneliness and social isolation.
- Sometimes older people become depressed because they are experiencing abuse or neglect. Read more about elder abuse & neglect and whether you might be experiencing it.
Phone lines
There's always someone to call if you're struggling:
- 1737, need to talk? – Phone 1737 or 0800-1737-1737 or txt 1737 (available 24/7). Trained counsellors who can talk you through your problems and suggest help in your area.
- Depression Helpline – Phone 0800-111-757 or txt 4202 (available 24/7). Trained counsellors who can talk you through your problems and suggest help in your area.
- Lifeline – Phone 0800-543-354 (available 24/7). Free confidential professional counselling service.
Important
At times, suicide might seem like a solution to depression. If you or a friend is considering acting on suicidal thoughts and needs help, phone the Depression Helpline on 0800‑111‑757 or txt 4202 (available 24/7), or phone Lifeline 0800‑543‑354 (available 24/7). Or you can contact your local mental health crisis team:
- Christchurch 0800‑920‑092
- Ashburton 0800‑222‑955
Written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. Endorsed by Service Development Manager, Planning and Funding, Canterbury DHB. Last reviewed September 2020.
Review key: HIDPO-57702
