Phone: 0161 250 5341 | Email: info@livingsupported.co.uk
Feeling Low or Sad in Later Life: When to Get Help
How to tell the difference between a low patch and depression in older age, what helps, and where to get urgent support.
In short
- Everyone feels sad sometimes.
- If you feel low most days for two weeks or more, talk to your GP. Depression is common and treatable.
- If you feel you cannot cope or are thinking about ending your life, call Samaritans free on 116 123, any time.
Sadness and depression are different
Sadness often follows a loss or a hard time and eases gradually. Depression lasts longer and affects daily life. It is not a normal part of getting older, and it is not a weakness. It can be treated at any age.
Signs of depression
- Feeling low, empty or hopeless most of the time
- Losing interest in things you used to enjoy
- Sleeping much more or much less, or feeling tired all the time
- Changes in appetite or weight
- Finding it hard to concentrate or make decisions
- Feeling worthless or a burden
What helps
- Talk to your GP. They can offer talking therapies, medication or both. You can also refer yourself to NHS talking therapies in most areas.
- Keep a simple routine. Getting up, dressed and out, even briefly, each day helps.
- Stay connected. Regular contact with others, even short conversations, matters.
- Move a little each day. Gentle walking can lift mood.
The NHS guide to depression and Mind have clear, trusted information.
If things feel very bad
If you feel you cannot go on, you do not have to wait. Call Samaritans on 116 123, or NHS 111 and choose option 2 for urgent mental health help. In an emergency, call 999.
A note on companionship
Companionship is not therapy, but regular, friendly company can be one part of feeling better, alongside the support of your GP. Read about companionship at home.
Where to get help
- If someone is in immediate danger, call 999.
- Samaritans: 116 123 (free, any time, day or night)
- NHS 111, option 2: 111 (for urgent mental health help in England, 24 hours)
- The Silver Line from Age UK: 0800 4 70 80 90 (free friendship and advice line for older people, 24 hours)
- Mind (information on mental health)
About Livingsupported: we offer private, non-regulated companionship, home help and lifestyle support across South Manchester, Cheshire and Staffordshire. We do not provide personal, nursing or medical care, counselling or therapy. Request a free home visit or call 0161 250 5341.