Depression

What Is Depression?

Depression is an illness rather than a normal part of ageing — and far more than sadness that simply passes. It affects energy, sleep, concentration, appetite, memory, self-worth and even physical health, and can drain the colour from things that once brought joy. One of its most common symptoms is social withdrawal, which sadly worsens the illness by amplifying the brain's stress response — the exact opposite of what someone needs.

It can take many forms. Seasonal depression follows a clear pattern, with episodes that recur in a particular season — most often winter, when shorter days disturb melatonin and brain chemistry — and fully lift at a characteristic time of year. In older adults, isolation, co-occurring illness such as diabetes, heart disease or Parkinson's, medication side effects, hearing or vision loss, and a lost sense of purpose can all contribute.

The most important message is one of hope: depression responds very well to treatment, whether through psychotherapy, antidepressants, light therapy for seasonal forms, or practical changes like sunlight exposure, exercise, sleep hygiene and meaningful companionship. Talking openly about mood changes with family and friends is often the first step towards recovery.