Than You Think Depression often goes unrecognized, in the elderly as well as the general population. As many as one in five older Americans will suffer from depression this year.
Depression reduces the quality of life.
Finally, depression may lead to suicide. Signs of depression include the inability to enjoy previous activities, sadness, mood changes and irritability. Most at risk are people who have just retired, lost loved ones or beloved pets. Other behaviors include less interest in friends, hobbies and activities, more drinking, giving away money and possessions, buying a gun or saving pills. Personal appearance is unkempt.