Surviving Late Life Depression

My low spells might be what is called late life depression.  According to some sources, as many as 10% of older adults who visit a doctor suffer from depression. I wonder how many who don’t visit a doctor are depressed? 

One article made the comment that late life depression often stems from loneliness and social isolation. I rarely feel lonely. I’m a hermit by nature and more often feel crowded by my living circumstances.

 I just lost my truck though which leaves me begging for rides to the grocery store every so often. I can’t take my dogs and go to events or visit the few friends I’ve met recently.

I don’t have a working phone. It takes money to get my prepaid phone charged with minutes. I bought a cheap headset so I could use the computer and Google Voice. The headphone quit after 3 days.  I can’t talk to anyone on the phone now.

I guess in some respects, I am isolated.

I know there are different stages or levels of depression. I've hit different levels many times, as many people do, when reacting to disappointments, illnesses or death. But sometimes it seems to go on for too long and I can’t seem to function. It’s worse when I’m running out of  food and essentials. I’m in good company. Nine million elderly folks are at risk of going hungry every day, a 79% increase according to the AARP.  Even the food pantries are having trouble finding enough food to provide for this portion of the population. 

California, Nevada, Washington, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Missouri, Arkansas, Mississippi, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Kentucky, Tennessee, Ohio, and North Carolina are the states hurting the most, according to USA Today.

I just moved to Texas and I can see a difference between here and New England. The bags here are much lighter and the food is rather paltry. Still, it's better than nothing.

I read that suicide is prevalent in those age 65 or older. Suicide accounts for 5,858 deaths a year. That’s one elderly suicide ever 90 minutes.

I’m over 65.  I have been suicidal in my past, but now it seems pointless. 

The only thing that helps me survive this black mood is to think about the things I am grateful for.

I am grateful for my two sweet dogs who insist I walk them twice a day and play Frisbee every morning.

 I’m grateful that I have my own camper, even if it’s in need of some repair. At least it’s mine and I have a place to sleep, to work, and to live.

I'm grateful for the kindness of strangers. I've had several people I've never met reach out to me on occasion. I'm humbled and amazed at the generosity of people.

I'm grateful for my family. Even though we're scattered around the world, we've all tried to be supportive of each other. I suppose I should be thankful for the internet too. It has allowed us to keep in touch.

I'm grateful for good heath.

 I'm grateful to have neighbors who will give me rides to the store when I need it. I have some friends who will send me emails and messages from time to time.

I’m grateful I'm not facing a New England winter this year. I will survive. Maybe things could even get better.