Managing Depression...

What is Depression?

• A range of feelings that may include sadness, gloom, numbness, emptiness, helplessness, and hopelessness
• Occurs frequently in chronic and terminal illness
• Symptoms are often the same as those of illness

What are the signs & symptoms of depression?

• Fatigue
• Sadness, depressed mood
• Loss of appetite with weight loss
• No interest or pleasure in daily activities
• Withdrawal from family and friends
• Sleep problems
• Feelings of worthlessness, hopelessness, guilt
• Difficulty focusing and thinking
• Thoughts of death or suicide
• Agitation or slowing down

What to report to the hospice team?

• Any of the symptoms listed above
• A known history of depression
• Any symptoms such as pain, nausea, difficulty breathing
• Change in medications the team may be unaware of

What can be done for depression?

Depression is common at the end-of-life.  There is a wide range of intensity of depression.  The hospice team will help you sort out causes of depression.  They will discuss treatment options with you.

You may:

• Get plenty of rest and proper nutrition
• Set small, realistic, achievable goals
• Use relaxation techniques
• Consider complementary therapies such as aromatherapy, art, and music therapy

Your caregiver may:

• Keep you and your area safe
• Let you know that they will be there for you
• Allow you to express feelings
• Allow you to control as much as possible decisions and activities related to treatment ​

If you or someone you know has any questions or concerns relating to depression or hospice care, give the professionals a call at 409.212..0205.