How to Discuss Seasonal Depression With Seniors Before the Holidays
The holidays bear unwelcome guests: stress and depression. Just like other people, elderly parents often exhibit signs of stress around the holidays. Seasonal depression before the holidays is mainly caused by unreasonable expectations. Further, it is the brain's response to changes in seasons. It may happen during fall or winter when the days get shorter and darker. Seasonal depression can be a serious health issue requiring proper medical treatment.
As a senior, if there is a risk of seasonal depression, learning the common signs can help. Healthcare providers can help diagnose symptoms. Some of the signs and symptoms to watch out for include:
- Anxiety
- Loss of interest in holiday activities
- Inability to concentrate
- Extreme fatigue
- Decreased appetite
- Trouble sleeping
- Restlessness
- Lastly, changes in personality
Tips to Approach Seasonal Depression Talks
If the symptoms of seasonal depression worsen, it is essential to notify family members. Here are some tips to approach the subject with seniors without feeling uncomfortable.
- Acknowledge the feelings. Elaborate that the holidays produce extra stress.
- Explain any noticeable changes and communicate negative feelings. Keep an open dialogue with adult children about depression.
- Seek help. Ask relatives, especially adult children, to help with holiday preparation. It can be as simple as asking them to help with chores around the house or running errands.
- Talk about triggers. If there is an obvious trigger, like holiday loneliness, recognize the agitation and speak with relatives about them.
3 Benefits of Discussing Seasonal Depression With Seniors
Talking about seasonal depression with seniors is not easy, but it surely matters. Here are three advantages of speaking about this condition.
1. Lowers the Risk of Suicide
Suicide is among the leading cause of death for the elderly. Talking about seasonal depression is vital to prevent suicidal thoughts. It helps seniors having suicidal thoughts reach out more to their adult children for help before it is too late.
2. Helps Combat Stigma Around Seasonal Depression
Seasonal depression is often stigmatized. This sequentially prevents one from reaching out for help. However, talking about it can help break down the barriers and avoid discrimination by loved ones. Awareness about seasonal depression can help ease feelings of blame. Thus, family members can better understand the reason for changes and be supportive rather than judgmental.
3. It Helps Elderly Parents Understand They Are Not Alone
Keeping the conversation going helps one feel comfortable during these discussions. It also aids in the recognition that seniors need to seek help. Talking about it helps parents understand that there are a variety of resources to help them. This then reduces loneliness.
Seek Help From Senior Helpers Aurora-Geneva
If diagnosed with seasonal depression, it is vital to seek support. As Senior Helpers Aurora-Geneva, we will help implement strategies a healthcare professional suggests to alleviate these symptoms. Contact us for our professional caregiver services in Geneva, Aurora, Plainfield, or Oswego.