Blue Cross and Blue Shield of New Mexico | Blue for Your Health | Spring 2021

Depression is real—and treatable Depression is more than feeling blue. It is a medical condition. Although depression is common among older adults, it’s not a normal part of aging. If you have some of these signs and symp- toms for more than two weeks, you may have depression: ■ Persistent sad, anxious, or empty mood ■ Feeling hopeless, guilty, worthless, or helpless ■ Irritability, restlessness, or trouble sitting still ■ Loss of interest in activities you used to enjoy ■ Fatigue or decreased energy ■ Trouble concentrating, remem- bering, or making decisions ■ Moving or talking slowly ■ Difficulty sleeping, waking early, or oversleeping ■ Eating more or less than usual ■ Thoughts of death or suicide ■ Aches or pains that don’t have a clear cause or don’t improve with treatment ■ Frequent crying Treatment can help Depression usually requires treatment. Different treatments work better for different people. The most common forms are medicine and talk therapy. If you think you or someone you care about may have depression, talk to a doctor. Sources: American Geriatrics Society’s Health in Aging Foundation; National Institute on Aging Lose weight, help gain control A little weight loss can boost your health in big ways when you have diabetes and some pounds to spare. That’s because shedding some of that excess weight—even 5% to 7% of your current weight—may help you achieve better control of your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol and possibly reduce your need for some medicines you take. Your health care provider can help you start a safe and effective weight-loss plan. You might also find a partner, such as a friend or relative, with similar health goals to help motivate you. Try a few changes at a time. For example: ■ Cut back on high-calorie, fatty foods, and eat a balanced diet. ■ Don’t skip meals, especially breakfast. Otherwise, you may eat more later on. ■ Don’t grocery shop on an empty stomach, when high-calorie goodies are hard to resist. ■ Avoid junk food aisles. Put healthy snacks, like fresh fruits and baby carrots, in your shopping cart instead. ■ Aim to be active on most days of the week. Walking can be a good choice. Sources: American Diabetes Association; National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases New Mexico Crisis and Access Line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year 855-NMCRISIS ( 855-662-7474 ) TTY: 855-227-5485 711 for relay (hearing and speech impaired) bcbsnm.com/community-centennial 7