Depression and dementia
depression and dementia p2
depression and dementia p3
depression and dementia p4
According to the World Health Organisation depression is ‘characterised by persistent sadness and a lack of interest or pleasure in previously rewarding or enjoyable activities’. It’s a common mental health condition affecting more that 264 million people worldwide, but we know that it can be even more common amongst people with dementia and their carers.
Common signs and symptoms of depression:
Feelings
- Sad, tearful
- Irritable, agitated, restless
- Guilt,
- Low self-worth/esteem
- Hopeless, despairing
Behaviour
- No motivation
- Difficulty sleeping or sleeping too much
- Withdrawn, avoiding social events
- Feeling tired all the time
- Restless
- Changes to appetite
- Changes to libido
- Self harm
Cognition
- Poor concentration
- Difficulty making decisions
- Poor recall/memory
- Negative thinking pattern
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms speak to your GP. There can be all kinds of reasons that you may be experiencing symptoms and it’s important to have a thorough assessment to rule out physical causes and/or diet/lifestyle factors that could contribute.