Baby Boomers and Depression
by Susan
I was interviewed by phone not long ago by Darlene Dunn of Newsnet5.com out of Ohio for an article she wrote about Baby Boomers and their life changes that can trigger depression. Before I give you the link to that interview I'd like to let you know that I am a Baby Boomer who has suffered with depression since my early 30's. I sought professional help, tried a number of anti-depressants and each one worked for me for a period of time. Psychotherapy was the most effective for me.
My brother, David, has received a great deal of help from both anti-depressants and Psychotherapy. In my opinion, senior citizens and people in all age groups need to seek professional help when they suffer from depression for more than a few weeks. The professional will help you decide what will be of most help for you.
I do believe that life changes during Baby Boomer years or anytime in our lives can trigger depression. Problems in your relationships can trigger depression as easily as major changes such as loss of a loved one or loss of a job.
On a personal note, my husband and I have been married for 42 years and we've shared a lot of good times as well as some problems. My children are all gone from home now and all are loving and successful adults. It was difficult for me to be a stay at home mom and even though I wasn't always the best mom, I did a good job. The loss of each of my parents was devastating to me and caused me a great deal of depression. I think a lot of Baby Boomers find themselves dealing with this same kind of loss.
My husband retired in 2005, at which time we needed to cut our expenses and I stopped seeing my psychologist on a regular basis and took up blogging. Blogging is definitely cheaper although it isn't nearly as effective as seeing a professional on a regular basis. I prefaced the interview with this article because I am a firm believer in seeking professional help if you suffer from depression and I don't think that point is made in the article. You can read the interview by Darlene Dunn at Newsnet5.com. It is titled, Boomer's Life Changes Can Start Depression.
Posted by ozzieblackcat at 10/12/2008 9:31 AM 
Categories: Baby Boomers,depression,Professional Help,Anti-Depressants,senior citizens,Mental Health
Categories: Baby Boomers,depression,Professional Help,Anti-Depressants,senior citizens,Mental Health
One of the biggest cause of depression is loneliness,you are not the only one who is suffering from this there are so many people suffering from them.
I suggest you to develop some hobby like reading books,gardening, photography,travel once a week to beautiful place near your house.
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Thank you for your comment. I do enjoy gardening and have for many years. My husband and I also enjoy going on short trips as well as going on dates to the movies and out to dinner. My Avon business helps me a lot. I think taking walks is also a big help for those of us with depression.
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Hello dear, its true isolation can create melancholy.. as well as u can help needy people not by money but other ways, or make a group people like urs and have a fun n enjoy life. God Bless U...
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Thank you so much for your reply. Susan
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Hi Susan and David:
Thank you so much for providing me with the opportunity to read your blog.
I have personally experienced mental illness both directly and indirectly, and am currently fortunate enough to be working on an exciting online initiative designed to break down the stigma of mental illness.
The website is called letsfacethis.ca and is a program undertaken by the Foundation and Neurosciences department at Sunnybrook Hospital in Toronto.
I would love for you to have a look at the site, and if you like it please feel free to post it on your blog.
The aim of the program is two-fold: fundraising is a component, but the primary aim is awareness raising.
I would be very interested to hear what you think of the site.
Very best regards,
Bill
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Thanks so much for your comment. I will check out your website soon and let you know what I think of it. Susan
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Depression is an unbearable pain.It can be overcome by taking medications, therapy or talk to someone whom you trust about your situation.
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Thank you for your thoughtful comment. Susan
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Nice blog. I will forward this post to my friends. Thanks
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Thanks so much. I would appreciate it if you would send this to your friends. I'd love to increase our readership. Susan
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This blogs is really great! wish i can create same as your blogs.
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Thank you so much!
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My mother has been in a depressed state for several years starting after her husband of thirty years passed away. At first we thought it was merely a change in life but as we, my brother and I, delved more into the symptoms of depression we narrowed things down for her.
She is receiving professional help and we are working with her to make things a lot easier for her.
Follow me at :
http://handlingdepression-bradcash99.blogspot.com/
Thank you
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