{"id":1877,"date":"2020-09-04T10:00:16","date_gmt":"2020-09-04T10:00:16","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/thejorni.com\/blog\/?p=1877"},"modified":"2020-09-04T11:23:25","modified_gmt":"2020-09-04T11:23:25","slug":"can-alcohol-cause-depression","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/thejorni.com\/blog\/can-alcohol-cause-depression\/","title":{"rendered":"Can Alcohol Cause Depression?"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"Round<\/p>\n

\u200bExperiencing senior depression and aging<\/h2>\n

Senior depression and the forgotten<\/strong><\/p>\n

When I was in high school, I volunteered as a Candy Striper at the local hospital. And if you\u2019ve never heard of a Candy Striper, they are hospital volunteers who work directly under the nurses. We helped restock any of the carts with linens and other supplies. Often, we helped with the meal distribution or took patients to their appointments on another floor. We made sure patients had everything they needed, including blankets, water and ice chips. And we sat and talked with patients to give them comfort and company.<\/p>\n

Over the years, I spent some time in each part of the hospital, including extended care, as well as the separate care home in town. I was just a teenager then and age and mortality did not really factor into my world too much. But what struck me even back then was the number of elderly patients I worked with who received medical care and were alone.<\/p>\n

Sure, most patients had family come visit once a week or once a month. And you could usually tell that the grand-kids were very uncomfortable. But on a daily basis, they lived with other elderly patients and the facility\u2019s care staff. As they became less mobile, they stayed mostly inside the care home, basically just waiting to die. The harsh reality of that scared me to the core and I often thought about that as I moved away and went to university.<\/p>\n

Is senior depression inevitable?<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Now that my grandma needs living assistance and my own parents are aging, I often think back to my time at the hospital. And I wonder if there isn\u2019t a better way. Under the circumstances, it is not surprising that senior depression is very common. But there is also the example of my great-aunt, which fills me with some hope.<\/p>\n

She lived in an assisted care facility in Florida until her death and she had the time of her life.<\/p>\n

Whenever the care facility held events, she went on regular outings and took part in fun nights. She enjoyed her life to the fullest and made every moment as fun as she could. The reality is that quality care homes can be extremely expensive and most people with a regular pension simply cannot afford them. And having a family member who needs medical care and daily assistance live with you can be more than a working family with kids can manage.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe don\u2019t stop playing because we grow old. We grow old because we stop playing.\u201d\u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 \u00a0 – George Bernard Shaw<\/p>\n

With age, many complex factors come together to create a very hard situation to navigate for many families. Yet why is depression in older adults sometimes treated as an inevitability? Depression is certainly not a normal part of aging, although many parts of our society seem to treat it that way. So what does science say can be done to change the situation to a more positive experience?<\/p>\n

\"Round<\/p>\n

\u200bWhat causes senior depression?<\/h2>\n

Depression in older adults, or in the elderly is such a common situation these days, that society almost views it like an inevitability. Socially, we definitely value youth over old age. This value system shows strongly in how we treat older adults in our society. Many factors come together to create this higher likelihood of depression for older adults. Let\u2019s have a look at some of the main factors that contribute to it.<\/p>\n

\"What<\/p>\n

Health<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Possibly the main factor that adds to depression in older adults is their health and mobility. As we age, it is inevitable that we will see and feel the wear of aging on our bodies. It becomes harder to lose excess weight or build muscle. Joints can become stiff and even painful and wounds or injuries don\u2019t heal as quickly.<\/p>\n

Many older adults are suffering from chronic conditions or illnesses that only seem to get worse with age. What might have been a nagging ache can develop into debilitating pain over the years. Another factor could be a loss of hearing or sight that makes certain activities a lot harder, if not impossible.<\/p>\n

As the conditions add up, and the energy levels come down, more older adults back away from exercise and activity altogether in order to avoid the risks and pains associated with it. Mobility can become more difficult. And that starts to quickly restrict the freedom of being able to go where you want, when you want. Ironically, a continued level of physical activity is sometimes the only thing that can hold chronic conditions at bay.<\/p>\n

Isolation<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Not many of us live with our grandparents in the same house anymore. Partly this is due to the way our family units have evolved over the last decades. Seniors are more commonly living in senior communities or care homes rather than in the homes of their children. Although some seniors\u2019 facilities are getting more luxurious, most older adults cannot afford to live in these types of communities.<\/p>\n

Many older adults face financial hardship after retirement and are forced to live in conditions that are not supportive, inspiring, or healthy. Isolation can be a really hard thing to deal with, especially if the family is not able to visit a lot. This isolation can be even worse if a partner or good friend has passed away.<\/p>\n

Mourning can sometimes transition into depression as the grief builds up. The current health crisis has also made it harder to stay connected and engaged with the seniors in our lives. Because of the risk of infection, many care homes have not allowed in-person visits for a long time. This can be devastating for an elderly person already feeling isolated or alone.<\/p>\n

Technology<\/strong><\/h2>\n

As technology continues to develop at break-neck speeds and take over more and more facets of our lives, there is definitely one generation more likely to be left behind. Technology like smartphones, wearables, and laptops is so intertwined with our daily lives today. And we often forget it didn’t even exist when the older generation grew up. It’s understandable that they don\u2019t have the same positive approach to it as the younger generations may have. It’s simply a question of just not being used to it.<\/p>\n

\"Senior<\/p>\n

Many seniors struggle with the interfaces that seem intuitive to younger folks. And many more don\u2019t find the technology necessary or worthwhile to learn. Some seniors have refused to adapt to any of the newer technologies. As a result, they have fallen behind too far to jump into certain apps or programs that may govern their grandchildrens\u2019 lives.<\/p>\n

Increasingly, we are also looking to technology to keep us comfortable and safe. Technology is often the first idea someone may offer their older parent to solve a problem. Simply put, the technology gap can have a detrimental effect on communication and relatability between generations. This is unfortunate because it means that it is even harder to share experiences and feelings we may have in common.<\/p>\n

\"Round<\/p>\n

What can be done to improve senior depression?<\/h2>\n

As a large part of our population transitions into old age, more and more research has been done on the adult brain and how aging affects it. As we begin to understand senior depression better, we are also starting to find some clues as to what may help keep it at bay. Let\u2019s have a look at some of the recommendations.<\/p>\n

\"Improve<\/p>\n

Keep a purpose<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Many older adults feel the pressure to make way for the younger generation in their job. While many are looking forward to retirement, some really love being at the top of their game and sharing their wisdom at their job. While retirement may be inevitable, it shouldn\u2019t be rushed if the work is enjoyable and stimulating.<\/p>\n

Research shows that having a purpose and contributing to society are vital factors in fighting off senior depression. After retirement it becomes even more important to find new ways to participate in and contribute to the community. Volunteering can be a great way to continue to live for a purpose and it can be great in expanding your social circle too.<\/p>\n

Learn a new skill instead of doing\u00a0<\/strong>Sudoku<\/h2>\n

Sudoku and other brain puzzles have been sold in a multi-million dollar industry to \u201ckeep your brain young\u201d. Unfortunately, some research shows that brain puzzles are not all they\u2019re hyped up to be. Learning a new skill (be it crosswords or Sudoku) can definitely help keep your memory trained. But, continuing to do crosswords all day won\u2019t specifically help you fight off Alzheimer\u2019s or senior depression.<\/p>\n

\"New<\/p>\n

The key in the equation is learning new skills, whether that be embroidery or welding. It\u2019s the continuing challenge of learning something new that has a positive effect against depression and disease. This happens because neuroplasticity is still a factor even when you are older. Plainly said, learning new skills forces your brain to make new brain connections, which in turn helps your mind stay \u201cyounger\u201d.<\/p>\n

So maybe that\u2019s how my great-aunt managed to stay happy in old age? She did learn to water-ski in her nineties!<\/p>\n

Fight complacency<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Similarly to learning new skills, fighting all aspects of complacency in life could be a vital key to fighting senior depression. It seems that approaching something that scares you could be of particular value to the brain and to your mental health. This means challenging old, worn-in pathways that you\u2019ve always had.<\/p>\n

Maybe you\u2019ve always been scared of water. So a brave and worthwhile thing to do in your old age is to challenge that notion and take swimming lessons in order to build confidence in the water. Becoming complacent with all of our routines and fears starts to restrict our daily lives more and more.<\/p>\n

\"Fight<\/p>\n

So, challenging these complacencies is a great way to break free of restrictions. Maybe address your fear of heights by getting your pilot\u2019s license. Or take that trip to the Grand Canyon you always wanted to take. It\u2019s all about continuing to grow and learn. Being conscious of how to do this safely as you age is, of course, an important part of that.<\/p>\n

Walk in the park, not at the gym<\/strong><\/h2>\n

While exercise in general is one of the most important ways to keep your body active, according to your brain, not all exercise is the same. Walking has often been recommended to keep the body moving and improve mood. But research shows that walking around outside can be more beneficial than walking on a treadmill.<\/p>\n

\"Walk<\/p>\n

Apparently we get the most mental benefit from walking in nature because our brains have to engage the hippocampus in order to do it. This part of the brain is responsible for our spatial awareness and navigational memory, so it helps us find our way around.<\/p>\n

When we are walking in new, wild trails, this part of the brain is active. On the other hand, a walk on the treadmill doesn\u2019t require its input much. Either way, you will get the benefit of exercise. But walking and navigating outside will give you some added mental training which can have a positive effect on your mental health.<\/p>\n

\"Round<\/p>\n

The Takeaway<\/span><\/h2>\n

While there are lots of factors that lead to senior depression, there are also many things that can be done to keep seniors active, engaged and happy. It seems that the brain holds many of the keys to this vitality in older age. The more we learn about brain health and mental health, the more we are able to take preventative steps to keep healthy and happy well into older age.<\/p>\n

\"Community<\/p>\n

Sitting in a care facility alone and depressed does not have to be the inevitable final result. Keeping active, not only physically, but mentally can go a long way in holding off senior depression. I have also seen many elderly people start living communities together. This means they get to live in the comfort of their home, while sharing their lives with other elderly adults. This prevents loneliness and encourages community and learning new skills.<\/p>\n

I truly believe that as we age, we need to re-think what aging means and how we facilitate living and thriving in older age.<\/p>\n

We also need to rethink how seniors contribute to society and ensure that everyone is able to follow their purpose. This will also help with reducing senior depression and build community between different generations. Especially after giving so much to raise the next generation and working all their lives, seniors are an integral part of our communities. And to keep senior depression at bay, we need to work together to support our older members of society.<\/p>\n

Let\u2019s make sure we honor the lives of our elderly by making aging something to be proud of, not something to be scared of!<\/p>\n

Sources<\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.cbc.ca\/radio\/thecurrent\/the-current-for-jan-13-2020-1.5424683\/a-neuroscientist-s-tips-for-helping-the-brain-age-well-1.5425549<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.healthline.com\/health\/depression\/elderly#causes<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.webmd.com\/depression\/guide\/depression-elderly#1<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

https:\/\/www.nia.nih.gov\/health\/depression-and-older-adults<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n

www.thejorni.com<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

\u200bExperiencing senior depression and aging Senior depression and the forgotten When I was in high school, I volunteered as a Candy Striper at the local hospital. And if you\u2019ve never heard of a Candy Striper, they are hospital volunteers who work directly under the nurses. We helped restock any of the carts with linens and […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":1892,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","tve_updated_post":"

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\"Round<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div>

Escape into alcohol
<\/span><\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>

The alcohol \u201cfeel-good\u201d myth<\/strong><\/p><\/div>

We\u2019ve all seen the media and social references to \u201chaving a drink\u201d when something bad or stressful happens in someone's life. There are numerous times someone turns to alcohol, to make their situation better. This illusion paints having a drink as a beautiful escape from whatever problems are going on. It\u2019s equated with having a nice long bath or reading a good book. Or eating some chocolates and listening to music.<\/p><\/div>

\u201cYou\u2019ve been feeling really down lately, let\u2019s get you a nice drink.\u201d<\/p><\/div>

\u201cHe broke up with you? Let me pour you a drink.\u201d<\/p><\/div>

\u201cThe only thing that can fix a day like this is a stiff drink.\u201d<\/p><\/div>

Yet does having a drink actually make you feel better? Or can it have a very different effect?<\/p><\/div>

Because many of us have been socialized to see alcohol as a \u201cmedicine\u201d for emotional pain and boredom, it is common for people to use alcohol to try and \u201cforget\u201d something traumatic or to have more fun. For example, college students usually love to party and get drunk to have fun. And who wouldn\u2019t want to have fun? Unfortunately, science shows that alcohol actually has the opposite effect on our bodies than we may hope for.<\/p><\/div>

Alcohol is clinically categorized as a depressant, which means it has a slowing effect on the nervous system. This can impede various vital functions. While it can cause an initial surge of energy that feels stimulating, this burst gives way to the overall sedative effects of the drug very quickly. And yes, alcohol can and should be considered a type of drug<\/p><\/div>

Alcohol and depression<\/strong><\/h2><\/div>

Generally, alcohol has a reputation (albeit a false one) of making people feel \u201cbetter\u201d. So, it isn\u2019t hard to understand why many people who suffer from depression and anxiety turn to drinking to try and alleviate their symptoms. Many mental health professionals note that the interaction of alcohol use and mood disorders (like depression) can start a very negative cycle.<\/p><\/div>

\n
<\/div>\n

Drinking alcohol changes the chemicals in your brain.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>

It actually lowers the levels of serotonin (a feel-good chemical) in your brain, which can worsen or even cause depression and anxiety. These effects are more pronounced in people who drink often, meaning that a habit of drinking can actually make it harder to heal from these mood disorders. So, while alcohol may be your go-to for a pick-me-up after a hard day of work, you may want to think about that if you are battling depression.<\/p><\/div>

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<\/div>\n\t

\u201cFirst you take a drink, then the drink takes a drink, then the drink takes you.\u201d
         - F. Scott Fitzgerald, 'The Great Gatsby'<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>

When I was at university, parties were a normal occurrence pretty much every weekend. And after exams, we even partied during the week and during the day. There did not really need to be a good reason. People just loved getting together and having fun. And yes, alcohol was available at every single party. It was a way to escape from our studies and just let loose<\/p><\/div>

Now, I don\u2019t have anything against alcohol; however, I would encourage you to re-think your relationship with drinking, if you are struggling with stress, anxiety, or depression. I say this because alcohol may be a contributing factor to how you are feeling. I personally don\u2019t drink any alcohol and it has made a huge and noticeable difference when it came to my depression and anxiety.<\/p><\/div>

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\"Round<\/span><\/div><\/div><\/div>

Why should you think twice about alcohol?
<\/span><\/h2><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>

Understanding that alcohol can make a mood disorder worse or more pronounced is important if you are looking to improve your symptoms. Depending on how severe your depression or anxiety is, it might be worthwhile to skip the alcohol. Here are some reasons why drinking alcohol may worsen the symptoms of mood disorders like depression and anxiety.<\/p><\/div>

\"Effects<\/span><\/div>

Alcohol causes imbalances<\/strong><\/h2><\/div>

As mentioned above, alcohol decreases the level of serotonin in your brain. This can leave you feeling more anxious, more on edge, and more depressed. The change in brain chemicals caused by alcohol can last for up to a day after drinking. So, if drinking is a daily occurrence, it can cause serotonin levels to remain low for as long as drinking continues daily. This feeds into long-term depression and perpetuates the situation.<\/p><\/div>

As a result, you may experience more frequent and more intense thoughts about suicide or harming yourself. Alcohol can also magnify whatever else may be happening in your life that stresses you out. If you have problems at work or are going through anxieties with your family, those stressors can all become more intense when you turn to drinking.<\/p><\/div>

Interferes with medication<\/strong><\/h2><\/div>

Many individuals struggling with mental health problems are on some sort of medication to improve symptoms. Alcohol consumption can interact with these drugs in your system and have some very negative effects. Not only does it increase the toll on your organs that filter out chemicals from your system. It can also alter, amplify, or suppress the effects of some medications.<\/p><\/div>

This can have a very negative effect with medication taken for your mental health because they often rely on very specific and constant levels in your system in order to work correctly. When alcohol disrupts these levels or changes the effects, it can have some unwanted consequences.<\/p><\/div>

\"Alcohol<\/span><\/div>

Alcohol doesn\u2019t actually \u201cdrown a memory\u201d<\/strong><\/h2><\/div>

Many of us have tried to use alcohol to \u201cforget\u201d certain events or alleviate the stress from certain thoughts. While the effects of alcohol can wreak havoc on your brain function and memory, it can also cause intense episodes of flashbacks and memory recall. Because our brain function becomes inhibited in general, you are as likely to re-live bad memories during a drinking episode as you are to forget about others. It is not a reliable way to \u201cforget\u201d about anything in particular and may even make the situation worse.<\/p><\/div>

Increased risk factors<\/strong><\/h2><\/div>

As if battling alcoholism and depression isn\u2019t enough, consuming too much alcohol frequently can also put you at risk for a variety of other conditions. What does \u201ctoo much alcohol\u201d mean? The CDC defines heavy drinking as consuming 15 drinks or more per week for men and consuming 8 drinks or more per week for women. And what exactly are you at risk for?<\/p><\/div>