It’s no a need to tell the meaning of depression as it’s the modern problem everyone is aware of and seeing people suffering with it. In the relentless pursuit of technological advancement and information, our world is thriving like never before. However, amidst this growth, a pressing concern emerges – a surge in mental health issues, most notably, depression.
7 Reasons Why Depression Affects Older Adults More
1. No one is there to listen to their past stories
For many older adults, the absence of attentive listeners can be a contributing factor to their increased susceptibility to depression. Children usually get involved in their own nuclear families and busy working lives and intentionally or unintentionally don’t spend time sitting beside the elders and listening to them. But, as they age, the need for human connection becomes more profound, and sharing their life stories becomes an essential way to feel valued and understood. When there is no one to lend a compassionate ear, feelings of loneliness and isolation may set in, deepening their emotional distress and triggering depressive symptoms.
2. In old age, excessive Vata(air) inside the body
Age-related changes in brain chemistry and cognitive processes can contribute to the tendency for overthinking in later life. According to Ayurveda, as one age, the Vata dosha(air) inside the body begin to intensify and it causes one to overthink and eventually leads to depression.
3. Overthinking
Whatever the reasons may be but older adults mostly start overthinking about the things that are really unimportant to give much focus upon. It becomes a habit for them and they even don’t realize it that they are actually overthinking.
4. Health challenges
As older adults confront health challenges, the fear of losing independence and declining physical abilities can trigger feelings of hopelessness, leading to depression. Additionally, relying on others for walking or other works can create a sense of overwhelming burden, further exacerbating their emotional distress.
5. Experience multiple losses, such as the passing away of loved ones
As they age, their family members, spouse, siblings, cousins, and friends start leaving the world and this loss of loved ones makes them emotionally and mentally weak, which leads to depression state.
6. Social isolation
Social isolation among older adults can lead to depression as it deprives them of vital human connections and emotional support. After getting retired from their work, it gets very tough for them to find the right people they can connect. Without regular social interactions, feelings of loneliness and worthlessness can intensify, contributing to a decline in mental well-being and increasing the risk of depressive symptoms.
7. Struggle to adapt to new environments and routines
The struggle to adapt to new environments and routines can lead to depression in older adults as it disrupts their sense of familiarity and stability. Facing challenges in adjusting to change, they may experience increased stress and a sense of loss, triggering feelings of helplessness and sadness. This difficulty in coping with transitions can significantly impact their mental health and contribute to the development of depressive symptoms.
9 Ways to Cure Depression Naturally
1. Yoga
Yoga Asanas, Pranayams, and Meditation are the 3 powerful ways to cure depression naturally. Though many times the depressed person is unwilling to practice them yet with the help of Yoga trainers and counselors, they can be involved in doing so.
2. Nature
Seeing nature gives humans peace and calms the mind. Those who stay near nature are always content and hardly get caught in this modern disorder called Depression.
3. Counselling
Counselling sessions from the psychologist are necessary to understand what the patient is feeling. He tries to remove the negative thoughts from the patient’s mind by showing him the beautiful and positive side of the world.
4. Emotional support
The depressed needs emotional support from his family members whether his partner or children. Isolation is quite dangerous to a depressed person and sometimes even leads to suicidal thoughts. Don’t let the sufferer stay alone. They have supported you your whole life so now it’s your time to support them.
5. Presence of closed ones
Try to accompany them and listen to them. Leaving alone most of the time is dangerous for their mental well-being.
6. Ayurvedic herbs
Ayurvedic medicines have cured the depression of uncounted people. It works on the root cause and not on the symptoms. It’ll also make you look younger, and feel energetic and positive.
7. Massage
In Ayurveda, oil massage soothes your nerves. You can use oils like sesame, sweet almond oil, olive oil, mustard oil, etc. to massage your head and torso. Sweet almond oil is most effective in it.
8. OM chanting
In Ayurveda, chanting OM is the most ancient practice to get rid of negative thoughts and find peace within self. Practicing it 5-7 times in the early morning will help cure your depression for sure.
9. Indian cow’s ghee(if available)
Indian Cow ghee and milk have the potential to cure depression. Dropping 1-3 drops of cow ghee inside both nostrils before sleeping reaches that part of the mind where no medicine reaches to cure the depression. So, if you want to cure the depression of your loved ones use the Indian cow ghee.
In conclusion, using Ayurvedic medicines, Yoga Asanas, Pranayams, caring by family members, and self-care practices can play a significant role in curing the depression in older adults. Incorporating strategies such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, sufficient sleep, and engaging in activities that bring joy can promote overall well-being for them. Mindfulness techniques, social support systems, and the exploration of alternative therapies can also enhance mental and emotional resilience.
