Treating your Depression

Depression can be treated just as successfully in older people as other age groups. Here are some ways other people have got better.

• If you can, tell someone about how you feel, whether it is someone you know personally or a health professional. Talking about it can help you feel less isolated
  
  
• Speak to your GP. Sometimes Depression can look like other conditions, so it is important to see your GP to get a correct diagnosis. Your GP can also prescribe antidepressant medication or refer you for other support.
  
  
• There are different talking therapies,such as cognitive behavioural therapy, interpersonal or psychodynamic therapy and counselling. They may be available on the NHS or you can see a therapist privately.
  
  
• You might be able to join a group or club to give you social support, structure or a place to be understood. There are some self-help groups in Scotland specifically for people who have Depression. If a group isn’t for you, there are many self-help books and websites that you may find helpful.
  
  
• There is good evidence to show that physical activity like walking, swimming and dancing lifts your mood. Alternative therapies, like yoga and acupuncture may help you relax and feel better about yourself. Even if you are not able to exercise, changin the food you eat can also affect how you think and feel.
  
  
• You may be feeling low because of other issues such as other health conditions, isolation, bereavement, caring for a relative or bad housing. Visit the support page for details of organisations that can work with you to find solutions for these problems.