Health for All says
In recent years, with the aging of the population, depression in old age has become a health problem that has attracted much attention. As an experienced old Chinese medicine practitioner, I would like to combine the theory of Chinese medicine and ancient and modern famous prescriptions to popularize science for you what depression in old age is and the relevant methods of Chinese medicine.
Depression in old age is a mental disorder of low mood due to a variety of causes. It is closely related to the physiological and psychological changes of the elderly. Physiological changes in old age include changes in hormone levels, decline in organ function, weakening of immunity, etc. The psychological changes are mainly reflected in retirement, children leaving home, and changes in social roles. These changes can directly or indirectly affect the mental health of older adults, which in turn can lead to depression in old age.
According to the theory of traditional Chinese medicine, depression in old age is mainly related to qi stagnation, blood stasis, kidney deficiency and so on. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that qi stagnation will lead to emotional stagnation, blood stasis will cause thinking sluggishness, and kidney deficiency will lead to a decline in cranial nerve function. Therefore, in the case of depression in old age, traditional Chinese medicine will focus on regulating qi and blood, strengthening the spleen and nourishing the kidneys as the main means.
First of all, TCM will use warm and qi-regulating formulas, such as Xiao Chai Hu Tang, to regulate qi stagnation. These formulas mainly relieve depression by stretching the qi and relieving the qi. In addition, TCM will also choose neuroleptics such as Xiaoyaosan to alleviate poor mood and improve sleep.
Secondly, Chinese medicine will adopt methods to promote blood circulation and eliminate blood stasis, such as angelica, Chuanxiong, etc., to regulate blood stasis. The formula of blood circulation and blood stasis removal is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine for dysmenorrhea, gout and other diseases**, and also has a certain effect on improving the symptoms of depression in old age.
Finally, TCM will nourish kidney deficiency by strengthening the spleen and kidneys. Common medicines in spleen and kidney strengthening formulas include ginseng and atractylodes, which help to improve the immunity of the elderly, enhance the body's resistance, and improve brain function.
In the process of depression in old age, TCM also emphasizes the importance of psychological counseling. TCM physicians will communicate closely with patients to understand their physical and mental conditions, and listen to their inner pain and confusion. Through this form of psychological counseling, TCM tries to help patients adjust their mindset and rebuild their confidence in life.
In addition to the best methods of traditional Chinese medicine, the prevention of depression in old age is also very important. Establishing a good social support network, exercising regularly, and maintaining a positive mindset are all positive for the mental health of the elderly.
In conclusion, senile depression is a common mental disorder that causes a lot of distress to the elderly. Traditional Chinese medicine has accumulated rich experience in the field of depression in old age, and can effectively improve the psychological condition of the elderly by regulating qi and blood, strengthening the spleen and kidneys, etc. Of course, in the prevention and prevention of depression in old age, we also need to work on many fronts, including social care, family support, and personal active participation.
Health References:
1.Kenichi Mori. Geriatric depression in traditional Chinese medicine**[J].Journal of Thorough Traditional Chinese Medicine, 2010(11):155-157