Depression

More than 2 million of the 34 million Americans age 65 and older suffer from some form of depression. In contrast to the normal emotional experiences of sadness, grief, loss, or passing mood states, major depression is extreme and persistent and can interfere significantly with an individual's ability to function. Less severe forms of depression are also common among the elderly and are associated with an increased risk of developing major depression. Depression, however, is not a normal part of aging.

Both doctors and patients may have difficulty recognizing the signs of depression. In an effort to improve recognition of the illness and promote discussion about depression during medical visits, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) has developed this cue card for older adults.

Research and Treatment

Modern brain imaging technologies are revealing that in depression, neural circuits responsible for the regulation of moods, thinking, sleep, appetite, and behavior fail to function properly, and that critical neurotransmitters -- chemicals used by nerve cells to communicate -- are out of balance. Genetics research indicates that vulnerability to depression results from the influence of multiple genes acting together with environmental factors. Studies of brain chemistry and of mechanisms of action of antidepressant medications continue to inform the development of new and better treatments.