By Bonnie Cook ~
Mental Health America of Greater Dallas is driven by our commitment to promote mental health as a critical piece to your overall wellness.
As the Covid-19 pandemic continues, so does the associated anxiety, depression, and mental illness. For those living in Dallas County, the mental health effects of Covid-19 are just as essential to address as the physical health effects. We may not all have a mental illness, but we all have mental health!
1 in 5 Adults Have a Mental Health Condition.
Depression is more than just feeling sad. It is a common concern in seniors and older adults.
BUT it’s important to know that depression is not a normal part of getting older. It is a concern we need to address as soon as we notice the possible warning signs.
Warning signs of depression
- Change in mood (lasting longer than a couple of weeks)
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Fatigue and/or sleep changes
- Physical problems such as stomach issues and/or pain that cannot be diagnosed
- Social withdraw (Are you not wanting to check-in with your loved ones?)
Risk factors to depression
- Genes: traits we inherit from our family
- Biology: balance of chemicals in the body
- Lifestyle: poor diet, lack of exercise, sleep patterns
- Environment: exposure to traumatic events, sudden loss, unsafe communities
If you or someone you love is experiencing any of the listed signs or identifies with the risk factors, it may be an excellent time for a depression screening. Mental Health America of Greater Dallas offers access to a free screening tool that can help you identify whether it is time to seek help.
Visit: www.MHADallas.org/help to take advantage of our free and confidential screening tools today!
