One in ten people had a depressive episode before they died

All ages of life can be marked by the onset of depression. An American study shows that the disease frequently strikes before death. In Journal of the American Geriatrics Societyresearchers show nearly 6 out of 10 people experience a depressive episode in the month preceding their death.

Increasing symptoms until death

The research team conducted interviews with over 3,000 people who died before the study was completed. The researchers found that depressive symptoms increased gradually from 12 to 4 months before death. From 4 to 1 month before death, they speak of an “escalation” of symptoms. In total, 59.3% of those questioned had had a depressive episode in the month preceding their death.

Differences according to profiles

Scientists find differences in risk depending on the profile of the person interviewed. Women, young people and non-white people have a higher risk of developing depression. When the disease strikes also varies by condition: cancer patients reported an increase in depressive symptoms when they were nearing the end of life, while patients with lung disease reported experiencing significant symptoms throughout their lives. throughout the year preceding their death.

The need for better support

For the author of the study, Elissa Kozlov, the results show the need for better management: “psychological symptoms must be treated throughout life, but especially when they are part of the context serious or chronic illness, to reduce suffering and distress and help patients have a ‘good death’”. According to her, scientific and public policy research must be stepped up to train more personnel to care for patients with psychiatric and mental disorders who are at the end of life. According to Insermone in five people has suffered or will suffer from depression in their lifetime.