There is certainly a difference between depression affecting the elderly and that in the young. Mild depression is more common in the elderly, and it is present in a more severe form among the young. Another factor in understanding depression in older people is that it is compounded with physical health problems. Treatment with antidepressant tablets does work but patients often do not seem to want it, probably because many worry that the tablets are addictive. This is not true for the treatments used today.
Many people stop treatment after a month or two just as they are getting better.
However, depression takes time to improve and treatment takes at least two to four weeks to work, with doctors currently recommending that anyone with severe depression should continue treatment for at least 6 months. The University of Leicester has produced a guide for those who come into contact with students experiencing mental health problems. This document has been approved by the head of department or section. If you are an authorised user you may edit this document through your Web browser.