|
Residents Suffering Depression
Depression is often unrecognized by staff, because it can be masked by other physical and mental illnesses. Many times, the presence of depression interferes with the effective treatment of these illnesses.
Caregivers can begin to assess if residents are suffering from depression by looking at the residents' behaviors, to see if they reflect the following symptoms:
Expression of feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or inability to improve the situation
Frequent crying
Persistently sad or anxious; feelings of pessimism
Loss of interest or pleasure in daily activities;
Poor personal hygiene
Easily fatigued; decreased energy
Loss of appetite; significant weight loss; sometimes increase in appetite
Difficulty in concentrating; inability to make decisions
Sleep problems such as inability to fall asleep, or early awakening
Irritability and anger
Suicidal thoughts, statements, attempts
Recurrent aches and pains that are not responsive to treatment.
|
