Dahlkemper

Caring for Older Adults, 7e

Critically Examine the Following
Chapter 18

Chapter 18
Common Clinical Problems: Psychological

Name:
Date:
Instructor Name:
Course Number and Name:

Critically Examine the Following 1:

Many people believe that depression is not an actual illness and that the depressed person just needs to
deal with it and get on with life. What are your thoughts about individuals who suffer from depression?
Do you have anyone in your life who has depression? How has it impacted their life and those around
them? After learning about depression, have you changed your views?

Suggested Response:
Depression is caused by a variety of factors and may be increased in patients who have increased stress
or illness. Depression can affect anyone and is not treated using the same method for all people. Some
individuals may benefit from support and outside resources. Others may benefit from alternative
treatments, such as hypnosis, aromatherapy, therapy, or exercise.

There are many people in my life who have been affected by depression. Often, their perception of the
world is negative and they lack the initiative to complete their normal routine tasks. This requires family
and friends to pitch in and do more than they normally would, which could also increase their stress
levels. Many people that I know want to do something regarding the way that they feel, but are “stuck”
in their perception and are unable to.

My views have not changed significantly regarding depression. However, learning about this problem
has helped me to see the bigger picture and how a variety of measures could help improve the
depressed persons’ perceptions.