Depression and Anxiety at an older age

I am 87 years old and have been treated for it with different meds for 45 years now. Lately I am really very depressed although on both Duloxitine and Buproprian. Because of my age and health, I recently moved 90 miles from my home to live with my son and daughter-in-law which means I no longer see any of the few friends I still have. I’ve also given up driving because I have a poor sense of direction and I’m no longer in a familiar area. I now live in a rural area meaning doctors are quite distant. I see 4 doctors, each every 3 months. I have to rely on my son to take me to my appointments. He never complains, but he has things to do and his own responsibilities. Therefore, I don’t want to impose on him anymore than I already am. I think I need to see a psychiatrist because my meds may need to be changed and I could also use some talk therapy. As one of my doctors can only be seen via a tv visit as there isn’t any one of that specialty in this area, I’m afraid it will be the same.
Because of my numerous health problems, my previous primary doctor knew of my depression. But I’m afraid my new primary will think I’m just imaginating another ailment although he does have my records of the last 15 years. I’m at a loss of what to do.

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As a man who is in 80th year (Note that I didn't say I'm 79 -- like the school kid who completed her 6th grade would say: I'm in 7th grade, I am quite happy to up the number my age, with no negative associations At ALL) I rarely see doctor, take no meds or have tests done, But I am able to climb 14 floors in my apartment stairwell, walk each day at least half hour and do strength flexibility and balance exercises every day. I eat close to no meat, mostly plant based balanced food, all for a cost of within 10$ a day. (I bought 15 lbs potatoes for 4$ for my carbs, always buy on-sale) I get up each day to First find out How to find friends. The current Surgeon General says healthy social connections are essential for health both physical and mental. I know I still have no social contacts, but it only spurs me to dedicate more effort...IF not now, when? I sleep well knowing I spent my day on what's most important for me. I'd a bad one day anxiety attack, but no depression ever. There are many who are worse of...think of rhose in Sudan, Syria, South America, and Asia. So I'm grateful and allow some PLAY, physical and mental, each day in my life. Lifestyle helps most to stave off most diseases and disabilities. I hope you find it encouraging. Good luck!

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As a man who is in 80th year (Note that I didn't say I'm 79 -- like the school kid who completed her 6th grade would say: I'm in 7th grade, I am quite happy to up the number my age, with no negative associations At ALL) I rarely see doctor, take no meds or have tests done, But I am able to climb 14 floors in my apartment stairwell, walk each day at least half hour and do strength flexibility and balance exercises every day. I eat close to no meat, mostly plant based balanced food, all for a cost of within 10$ a day. (I bought 15 lbs potatoes for 4$ for my carbs, always buy on-sale) I get up each day to First find out How to find friends. The current Surgeon General says healthy social connections are essential for health both physical and mental. I know I still have no social contacts, but it only spurs me to dedicate more effort...IF not now, when? I sleep well knowing I spent my day on what's most important for me. I'd a bad one day anxiety attack, but no depression ever. There are many who are worse of...think of rhose in Sudan, Syria, South America, and Asia. So I'm grateful and allow some PLAY, physical and mental, each day in my life. Lifestyle helps most to stave off most diseases and disabilities. I hope you find it encouraging. Good luck!

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As a man who is in 80th year (Note that I didn't say I'm 79 -- like the school kid who completed her 6th grade would say: I'm in 7th grade, I am quite happy to up the number my age, with no negative associations At ALL) I rarely see doctor, take no meds or have tests done, But I am able to climb 14 floors in my apartment stairwell, walk each day at least half hour and do strength flexibility and balance exercises every day. I eat close to no meat, mostly plant based balanced food, all for a cost of within 10$ a day. (I bought 15 lbs potatoes for 4$ for my carbs, always buy on-sale) I get up each day to First find out How to find friends. The current Surgeon General says healthy social connections are essential for health both physical and mental. I know I still have no social contacts, but it only spurs me to dedicate more effort...IF not now, when? I sleep well knowing I spent my day on what's most important for me. I'd a bad one day anxiety attack, but no depression ever. There are many who are worse of...think of rhose in Sudan, Syria, South America, and Asia. So I'm grateful and allow some PLAY, physical and mental, each day in my life. Lifestyle helps most to stave off most diseases and disabilities. I hope you find it encouraging. Good luck!

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didgi1
I am new and am dealing with depression, anxieties and other health issues. Feeling like I should not be here. I am on antidepressants but still am really down and dealing with anxieties. Effexor is one of my medications, but I think I am having health issues with it. How do I really know?

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I agree about trying to help someone else. I volunteer at a food basket once a week for a few hours. Seeing some of those clients gives me good perspective on the blessings in my own life.

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