Depression isn’t the same as having the blues. It can steal your energy and keep you from taking care of the normal activities of your daily life. Depression isn’t a normal part of getting older, but some challenges that are more common with aging might raise the risk. For example, many older adults are living with chronic conditions, which can put their mental well-being at risk. Reduced mobility, chronic pain, feeling isolated or lonely, having financial stress in retirement, and coping with grief and loss all may raise the risk of depression as well. Your EAP is here to help Your Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to support you through life’s challenges and help you focus on your mental health and overall well-being. EAP provides three free counseling sessions with a licensed provider near you. Getting started is easy: ● Visit www.anthemeap.com/county-of-kern. ● Scan the QR code at right using your phone’s camera. ● Call 844-416-6386 for assistance or questions. Additional mental health support You can also use your Kern Legacy Health Plans provider directory to find network providers who specialize in emotional health, mental health and overall well-being. To find a contracted provider, visit www.kerncountyhealthbenefits.com or call the Member Services number on the back of your ID card. You don’t have to have it all figured out. It’s OK to slow down, take a breath and take care of yourself. Spot the signs People who are depressed often have feelings of sadness and other signs and symptoms that last for two or more weeks and interfere with daily life, including: ● Feeling guilty, hopeless or worthless. ● Losing interest in activities they once enjoyed. ● Not caring about anything anymore. ● Crying often. ● Feeling tired and slowed down. ● Having difficulty sleeping, concentrating or remembering things. ● Overeating or eating less than usual. ● Having unusual symptoms, such as frequent pain or digestive health issues. ● Having thoughts of death or suicide. Senior depression is sometimes overlooked Keep in mind that sometimes depression looks and feels different when you’re older. For example, if you’re struggling with the exhaustion of depression, you may think you’re just feeling tired because you’re getting older. And because depression can affect how you think, it may sometimes get mistaken for age-related memory and thinking problems. If you think you might have depression, tell your doctor. Your doctor may want to rule out any other underlying health issues that may be causing similar symptoms. If it is depression, your doctor can recommend treatments—like counseling, medications or both—that can help. Remember, depression is not a normal part of aging. Many older adults have excellent mental health. If you aren’t feeling like yourself, don’t ignore that. Talk to someone, including your doctor. Get the help you deserve. Sources: American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; National Alliance on Mental Illness; National Coalition on Aging
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