Watching a friend or loved one slowly sink into the gloom of dementia or Alzheimers can also cause depression in the caregiver. Research has shown that these caregivers are twice as likely to suffer from depression as others who care for elders who are mentally alert.
The good news is that recognizing the signs of depression can significantly hasten its cure if they're discovered and treated early enough. http://www.disaboom.com , the Webs largest online community for people with disabilities, suggests that caregivers be on the lookout for any of these seven symptoms of depression:

1. A change in eating habits resulting in unwanted weight changes.
2. A change in sleep patterns.
3. A feeling of tiredness.
4. A loss of interest in people and/or activities that were previously pleasurable.
5. A tendency to become easily agitated or angered.
6. A feeling that nothing you do is good enough.
7. Thoughts of death or suicide, or attempting suicide.

If these symptoms sound familiar, its because they represent the classic signs of depression--and you should take action immediately.

So, if you find any of these signs in yourself, here are some steps you should take:

First, schedule an appointment with a doctor to rule out physical causes--some medical conditions can mimic depression.

Second, once physical causes are eliminated, meet with a professional--a psychiatrist or psychologist--to determine the best course of action. This might include prescription medications, a range of therapies (cognitive and behavioral; interpersonal; psychodynamic), or any of several other traditional therapeutic approaches. Sometimes, alternative therapies, such as St. John's Wort, an herb used to treat mild to moderate depression, can be useful.

Third, initiate a regular program of exercise (aim for walking three times a week for 30 to 45 minutes each). This simple step has consistently proven to reduce the effects of depression. Having a tough time fitting exercise in? Ask your doctor to write a prescription for walking, or join a walking group.

Fourth, consider alternatives that might be available to you, such as adult day care or in home health care. These options, which allow your loved one to continue to live at home, can provide you with a much-needed break from personal caregiving, while still providing professional quality care without the need to resort to Assisted Living or Nursing homes facilities, which are much more intrusive and expensive.

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