Many older adults suffer from clinical depression without knowing it - and they're unlikely to get better without help. What's the difference between depression and "feeling blue"?

WARNING SIGNS

Symptoms of depression vary, but they can include:
constantly feeling sad, "empty," or anxious
sleep problems
feeling worthless, helpless, or guilty
thinking about suicide or death; attempting suicide
feeling pessimistic or hopeless
difficulty remembering, concentrating, or making decisions
loss of pleasure in activities previously enjoyed
a change in appetite or weight
irritability or restlessness
obsessive crying
persistent aches and pains that don't improve with treatment
fatigue; decreased energy.
If you have experienced four or more of these symptoms for longer than two weeks, talk to your doctor.

WHY TREAT IT?

Depression usually can be treated successfully with medicine, talk therapy, or a combination of these.
Here's why treatment is so important:
Depression may raise the risk for, worsen, or mask other illnesses, including heart disease.
Early treatment may keep mild depression from getting worse.
In older adults, untreated depression may raise the risk of becoming or remaining disabled.