Understanding How Depression and Anxiety Overlap
Anxiety and depression are two of the most prevalent mental illness disorders in the United States, and especially among the elderly. Over 18% of people are diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, but only 36.9% of those suffering receive treatment. When it comes to depression, 37.9% of in-home care clients reported a depression disorder. The goals for in-home caregivers is understanding how depression and anxiety overlap, and using this knowledge to create the best possible care plans for their clients.
How Do Depression and Anxiety Overlap?
While depression and anxiety are different disorders, it is common for people who have one to also have the other. Depression and anxiety also share several symptoms. These include:
Restlessness
Trouble thinking and making decisions
Excessive worrying
Unexplained physical complaints (such as stomach pain or headaches)
Agitation and irritability
Social isolation
Depression and anxiety may also look different between men and women, and also between the young and the elderly. This is why it is important for in-home caregivers to look at each client in a holistic way.
How Can In-Home Caregivers Help?
Understanding how anxiety and depression overlap is an important first step. Communication is also key. In-home caregivers can practice positive communication techniques by using simple, concrete words, allowing time for the client to respond, remaining calm and neutral, keeping the conversation client-centered, and being kind, patient, and empathetic.
In-home caregivers can also offer encouragement. This can be in the form of encouraging words, helping the client maintain a healthy sleep schedule, providing a safe space for the client to talk, encouraging relaxing techniques, assisting with moderate and gentle exercise, and facilitating positive social interactions and quality time with friends and family. It is important, as well, for in-home caregivers to help clients maintain a healthy diet and stick to a medication schedule.
Quality In-Home Care Services
Do you or a loved one need the support of an in-home caregiver? Quality in-home care services are a useful tool for managing anxiety and depression. The in-home caregivers at Alegre Home Care are experienced, qualified, and available for a variety of in-home care needs. All in-home caregivers receive ongoing training and education, and have the full support of the in-home care agency.
