Grandmother's Mental Health: Coping with Anxiety and Depression

Grandmother's psychological issues?

Hello, doctor.
My grandmother has been experiencing symptoms of depression, panic, and anxiety.
She has needed family companionship for many years, which has been a significant concern for us.
I live in a single-parent household, and my father has always preferred to be out and about.
After starting college, I also need to participate in social activities and cannot stay home with my grandmother every day like I did in high school.
Therefore, we hired a foreign caregiver to take care of her.
However, my grandmother needs family; she may feel like she could have an episode at any moment.
Perhaps that's why she once knelt down and begged me not to go out.
This situation is truly heartbreaking for me.
The caregiver has been with us for five years, and this condition has persisted for about six years.
My grandmother has had long-standing issues with her stomach and heart, but these are concerns she has expressed herself.
We often take her to see a gastroenterologist, and the test results show no problems.
Could this be related to psychological factors? If we want to improve her situation, where should we start? Currently, my grandmother's condition can be summarized as follows: pessimistic, unable to be alone at home (she can manage with the caregiver during the day but cannot accept that family members are not home at night), significant heart and gastrointestinal issues (but no problems found in outpatient visits), anxiety, and frequently checking if the gas is off and the doors are locked, as well as often walking around the house.
These are my concerns...
Thank you for your help.

Nìmíng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/02

Dr. Lin Jiannan reply Geriatrics

Dear Sir/Madam,
Thank you for your inquiry and for your message.
Since Dr.
Lin has left our hospital to start a private practice, I am responding to your questions on his behalf.
Based on your description, it is clear that you are concerned about your grandmother's condition, which is quite common in our clinical work.
If time permits and with your grandmother's consent, I would recommend a consultation with a psychiatrist or a psychosomatic specialist.
This is primarily to address your grandmother's symptoms of depression and anxiety, as well as to conduct a memory assessment, since cognitive decline in the elderly is highly correlated with depressive symptoms.

Of course, having family members provide appropriate companionship can also be beneficial for your grandmother's emotional well-being.
Our hospital has outpatient consultation hours from Monday to Friday, both in the morning and afternoon, with appointments available until 11:30 AM and from 1:30 PM to 4:30 PM.
The consultation phone number is 06-2795019, ext.
1106, 1107.
Wishing you good health and well-being.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Zhang Fang-Rong
Department of Psychiatry

Reply Date: 2016/03/02

More Info

Your grandmother's situation is indeed concerning, and it reflects a complex interplay of emotional and psychological factors that can significantly impact her quality of life. Based on your description, it seems she is experiencing symptoms of anxiety and depression, which are not uncommon in older adults, especially those who may feel isolated or have experienced significant life changes.

Firstly, it's important to recognize that the feelings of anxiety and depression can manifest in various ways, including physical symptoms. Your grandmother's complaints about her heart and gastrointestinal issues, despite medical evaluations showing no physical problems, suggest that her mental health may be influencing her perception of her physical health. This phenomenon is often referred to as somatization, where psychological distress is expressed through physical symptoms.

The fact that your grandmother feels a strong need for family presence and companionship indicates a deep-seated fear of abandonment or a sense of insecurity. This is not unusual for elderly individuals who may feel vulnerable due to age, health issues, or loss of loved ones. Her anxiety about safety, such as checking if the gas is off or the doors are locked, is a common behavior in individuals with anxiety disorders. These compulsive behaviors can provide a temporary sense of control but often exacerbate feelings of distress in the long run.

To address your grandmother's mental health concerns, consider the following steps:
1. Encourage Professional Help: It would be beneficial for your grandmother to see a mental health professional, such as a psychologist or psychiatrist. They can provide a thorough assessment and recommend appropriate treatment options, which may include therapy, medication, or a combination of both. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is particularly effective for anxiety and depression.

2. Family Support: While you may have commitments that limit your availability, it's crucial to maintain regular contact with your grandmother. Even brief phone calls or video chats can help her feel connected and supported. If possible, try to arrange for family members to take turns spending time with her, which can alleviate her feelings of loneliness.

3. Engage in Activities Together: Encourage activities that can be done together, such as watching movies, playing games, or even simple tasks like cooking. This can help distract her from her worries and create positive experiences that reinforce her sense of connection to the family.

4. Routine and Structure: Establishing a daily routine can provide a sense of stability and predictability, which may help reduce her anxiety. Encourage her to engage in regular physical activity, which is known to improve mood and reduce anxiety.

5. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Introduce her to mindfulness practices, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, or gentle yoga. These techniques can help her manage anxiety and promote relaxation.

6. Monitor Physical Health: Continue to ensure that her physical health is monitored. Sometimes, underlying health issues can exacerbate mental health symptoms. Regular check-ups with her healthcare provider can help rule out any medical concerns.

7. Educate Yourself and Family: Understanding the nature of anxiety and depression can help you and your family provide better support. Consider reading materials or attending workshops on mental health to equip yourselves with knowledge and strategies to assist your grandmother.

In summary, your grandmother's mental health challenges are multifaceted and require a compassionate and proactive approach. By encouraging professional help, maintaining family connections, and fostering a supportive environment, you can significantly improve her emotional well-being and quality of life. Remember, it's essential to be patient and understanding as she navigates these difficult feelings.

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