Causes of Depression -
Social/Environmental
We do know that a lack of social supportive relationships, an increase in social stresses, isolation and economic hardship can contribute to depression. It is a time of many changes, and often includes difficulties adjusting to, or negotiating the environment differently than what is familiar. Children are away from home, sometimes across the country and roles or one’s status have changed. The frequency of social interactions may be decreased due to various reasons, and the ability to utilize resources may be deficient.
Various cultures treat the aged without respect and some neighborhoods are actually dangerous where the vulnerable elderly person falls prey. America is a youth oriented culture and the elderly may feel ‘left out’ or ‘ignored’. Values and beliefs may conflict between generations and cause further separation, isolation and decrease available attachments so necessary to the elderly.
There are many social-environmental issues that may contribute to depression in the elderly. It is important to remember that even though stresses are more common before the onset of depression, occasionally, this association is not found. Because stress may cause distress in some elderly, it may not in others. The reaction to stress is very personal and varies greatly in the elderly.
How one responds to a stressful event may have more to do with how the individual manages stress overall, rather than a factor of age. Usually depression results from a combination of physical, psychological, social, cognitive, behavioral and spiritual difficulties. The above stresses are sometimes difficult to prevent so it is important to think about those which are affecting you, and how you are effected.
