Geriatric somatic depression is a condition in which depression adds to symptoms that are already present in any illness. For example, if an individual with arthritis becomes depressed, the aches and pains from the arthritis may become worse. This type of depression is not genetic, and is unrelated to mental disorders present at a younger age. The "Annals of General Psychiatry" posit that the condition can increase the likelihood of premature death three-fold.
Fatigue
A common symptom among geriatric somatic depression sufferers is the inability to get up and get physically active. MedlinePlus defines this conditions as a normal reaction to physical exertion, yet not when it precedes physical exertion. Instead, it is likely a combination of emotional stress, poor diet, long-term pain, grief, depression and sleep disturbances. These conditions can feed into one another, making it extremely difficult to return to normal and seriously impairing the individual's quality of life.
Suicidal Ideation
Suicidal ideation, or thoughts, are an intrusive problem for those with geriatric somatic depression. According to the American Association of Suicidology, elderly white men over the age of 85 comprise the largest group affected by suicide, averaging about 45 completed suicides for every 100,000 individuals. Complications related to pain and illness comprise just one area contributing to a completed suicide plan. In the elderly, other factors such as grief from losing their spouse, dramatic changes in life roles, social isolation and loneliness can be included.
Hypochondriasis
Hypochondriasis, or the belief that something is always physically wrong, is a common occurrence in geriatric somatic depression. It is often under-treated due to real symptoms of actual medical conditions. The Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health at the Institute of Medicine in Nepal suggests that hypochondriasis in the elderly with depression contributes a tremendous influence on whether existing medical conditions will lead to a debilitating, disabling or progression of disease.
References
- "Annals of Geriatric Psychiatry"; Unipolar Late-Onset Depression: A Comprehensive Review
- MedlinePlus: Fatigue
- American Association of Suicidology: Elderly Suicide Fact Sheet
- Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health at the Institute of Medicine in Nepal: Study of Depression Among Geriatric Population in Nepal
