of interest in activities that formerly were pleasurable, and feeling hopeless, helpless, or worthless (Medical Update, 2000). If these symptoms occur, they should go to a family doctor immediately. The treatments used for depression are commonly used in any age bracket. It varies with the elderly because we do not know how much there body can take and most likely they are already taking a good amount of medications for other problems.“Even when physicians suspect depression, they may be hesitant to prescribe medication, knowing the greater sensitivity older people have to adverse drug effects” (Friedrich, 1999).With each person, varies how the treatment will affect them compared to others. “The rewards of making diagnosis are high, as more than 80% of patients respond well to treatment.” (Butler, Cohen, Lewis, Simmons-Clemmons, Sunderland, 1997). There are two main drugs being used today, which are serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs). (Harvard Mental Health Letter, 1999). Examples of serotonin reuptake inhibitors are Paxil, Zoloft, and Celexa. These have fewer side effects and less risk of dry mouth, constipation, dizziness, and cognitive impairment. Examples of tricyclic antidepressants are Pamelor, and Norpramin, which are usually used to treat severe depression or melancholia. Along with TCAs, an electrocardiogram may be used because these antidepressants can disturb heart rhythms. (Harvard Mental Health Letter, 1999). Another method of treatment is psychotherapy, especially in preventing the depression to occur again. This can be critical in maintaining a person’s confidence and motivation to stick with medications. “Studies show that psychotherapy is very effective. Twenty visits, for example, can often make a very significant impact in turning things around.” (Butler, et al., 1997). Using psychotherapy and drugs, remission should take ...
