How do I talk to my dad about his depression?

If you are concerned and feel like things will not get better, it’s okay to start a conversation about depression. Approach your parent from a place of concern and care. Remind your parent how important he is to you, and that you want to see him happy. Say, “I’m concerned about you and your health.

What should I look out for if my parent is depressed?

Watch out for increases in alcohol consumption or drug use. If your parent has changed habits with alcohol or drugs (including prescription medications and sleeping pills), this may be related to depression. Depression is not contagious and you cannot catch it. Talk to your parent.

What are the symptoms of depression in older parents?

An older parent’s depression may not manifest itself in crying jags or other symptoms we’ve seen in depressed friends or ourselves. But keep an eye out for the physical symptoms of depression, like insomnia and irregular eating habits — these are common signs of depression and other mood disturbances among older adults.

Can you get older and not get depressed?

Again, many people navigate the common health challenges of getting older without experiencing depression.

How can I help my elderly parent with depression?

Nature, sunshine, and fresh air can relax your parent and help them feel better. Going for a walk outside can lower depression and stress. Observe the trees and the animals and enjoy being in nature. Go to a park or a nature preserve and take a walk together.

What was it like to live with anxiety before my father died?

I was living with chronic anxiety and depression before my father died. But the kind of anxiety I felt in the months after his death — and still feel occasionally — was otherworldly. Major life events happen to people living with chronic mental health issues, just like they happen to everyone else.