I feel like I’ve lost my husband even though he is sitting right next to me. When he retired, we had an active life with friends, family and grandchildren. Two years ago, he had a triple bypass. His recovery went well, but over the last year he seems to have lost interest in everything. He used to enjoy golfing, socializing with friends, playing cards and reading. Now I have to push him to come with me to see family and he refuses to visit with friends. He says he wishes God would take him. His doctors say that, physically, he’s fine. I just want my husband back. Am I hoping for too much?
 

When we see changes in a loved one, it is always important to have them evaluated by the primary care physician for a worsening or onset of a medical illness.  However, if you have done this, I would recommend evaluation for depression.  Depression occurs more often in those who have other medical problems like past heart attack or stroke, high blood pressure, angina, diabetes, etc.  The good news is that depression can be treated.  About 70% of those who are treated with an antidepressant medication report relief of depressive symptoms and feeling more like their “old self,” including more energy and motivation, enjoying friends and family, resuming hobbies, exercising and taking care of themselves.  Here is a checklist to consider when trying to figure out if you or a loved one suffers from depression.  If four or more of these are checked, you are probably dealing with depression.

• Feeling down, hopeless or worthless
• Crying spells
• Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
• Changes in appetite
• Difficulty concentrating
• Low energy
• Loss of interest in activities

There are a number of resources available to you in getting help with depression including your primary care physician or a psychiatrist to whom he/she may refer you. Here at the Washington University Center for Depression and Neuroimaging, we are studying the relationship between physical illness, depression treatment and the brain in volunteers over the age of 60. If you or your loved one is interested in obtaining treatment while helping us learn more about the relationship between depression and illness, give us a call at 314-747-0465. 

Yvette Sheline, MD
Washington University
School of Medicine

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