Depression is a serious mental illness that requires prevention or treatment regardless of their age. Based on the World Health Organization, 20 percent of adults aged 60 and older suffer from a mental or neurological disorder. Mental illness is getting increasingly prevalent in the community, and it is important to be informed of its prevention and causes before it causes irreparable harm. Here are some tips to prevent depression in your loved one.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy can help to target dysfunctional thoughts with the help of a professional psychiatrist. Its main purpose is to restructure negative thought patterns in order to change behavior. This can help your loved ones to restructure their thoughts more positively and help to prevent depression.
Problem Solving Therapy (PST)
Problem Solving Therapy is a type of therapy whose purpose is to prevent and reduce depression by teaching individuals to have rational appraisals of the issues that they are facing. Problem Solving Therapy also helps to provide adaptive methods and skills for individuals in order for them to live their lives to the fullest despite life’s challenges. Problem Solving Therapy is mainly a long-term solution to preventing depression, especially for individuals that suffer from medical comorbidities like chronic illnesses or chronic pain. It can teach them tips and coping strategies for managing their symptoms that may also be affecting their mental health.
Physical Activity
Research has shown that ten weeks of physical exercises like resistance workouts can help to prevent depression from exacerbating in elderly suffering from mild to moderate Major Depressive Disorder symptoms. Physical activity releases chemicals called endorphins, dopamine and serotonin which can boost one’s mood significantly.
Stepped Care
Stepped care provides intervention for individuals only when it is needed. Advice is provided to help them develop coping skills for life experiences, after which they will be checked for progress. Only those who develop depression symptoms or whose mental health has deteriorated would be provided with antidepressants as well as psychiatric treatment. This is ideal for individuals who would like to seek help for their mental health but still value their individual freedom.
Let Discovery Commons South Biscayne Take Care of Your Loved Ones
If you are concerned about the physical and mental health of your loved ones, you could head over to Discovery Commons South Biscayne to help to ensure an active and healthy lifestyle for them. Discovery Commons South Biscayne is committed to making sure that the residents have everything that it has to offer. We provide Celebrations Activities and Events which can help to stimulate the mind, body and soul, as well as Dimensions Health and Fitness to help your loved ones to boost their immune system and their mental health. Residents in Discovery Commons South Biscayne would be able to participate in recreational activities that are available and socialize with other residents, which can help to prevent social isolation as well as the onset of depression. What are you waiting for? Contact us now to find out more about what we have to offer.
