Mood and anxiety disorders
- DOI:
- 10.1093/med/9780198701590.003.0136
Mood and anxiety disorders, such as major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder, are prevalent among older adults but are often undiagnosed and untreated. Older adults commonly experience factors that can increase risk for having these disorders, including comorbid medical conditions, frailty, and stressful major life events. The recognition and treatment of these disorders may be challenging due to issues associated with ageing. The risks and benefits of treatment options must be carefully considered since many older adults have comorbid conditions and concomitant medications which can exacerbate the likelihood for adverse effects of pharmacological treatments. Screening for these conditions and careful monitoring after treatment initiation is warranted. This chapter focuses on risk factors, presentation, assessment issues, and treatment of major depression, anxiety disorders, and suicide in older adults.
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