Inside Mental Health

The Raritan Valley YMCA (www.raritanvalleyymca.org) has teamed up with the Middlesex County Office of Aging & Disabled Services at 732-745-3295 to increase public awareness of services and opportunities for county seniors, the disabled, and their caregivers.

Feeling down every once in a while is a normal part of life, but if these feelings last a few weeks or months, you may have depression. Depression is a serious mood disorder and it can affect the way you feel, act, and think. Among older adults, depression is a common problem, but clinical depression is not a normal part of aging.

There are risk factors of depression such as changes in the brain that can affect mood and result in depression. Additionally, major life events, like a medical diagnosis or a loved one’s death can be a risk factor. Stress, whether it is from caring for a loved one because of a disability or illness can trigger depression. Lastly, someone may become depressed for reason at all.

The following is a list of a few common signs and symptoms of depression. Although many people experience depression differently, there may be symptoms that are not on the list.

• Persistent sad, anxious, or ‘empty’ mood
• Feelings of hopelessness, guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
• Irritability, relentlessness, or having trouble sitting still
• Decreased energy or fatigue
• Eating more or less than usual, sometimes unplanned weight gain or loss
• Thoughts of death or suicide, suicide attempts

There are different treatments available for depression that may help. For most people, depression does get better with treatment. This includes counseling, medicines, and other therapies that may help. It is important to talk with your doctor if you think you might have depression.

For general health information and area wide programs and services for senior citizens and disabled persons residing in the county visit https://www.middlesexcountynj....

For exercise class schedules and membership information stop by the YMCA at 144 Tices lane or call 732-257-4114