What should you know about dementia and depression?

Depression may cause low mood, loss of interest, fatigue, irritability, anxiety, poor sleep, or difficulty concentrating. Dementia can also affect memory, thinking, communication, and everyday tasks. A person with dementia may develop depression, while depression can make memory and thinking feel worse. Insomnia and daytime sleepiness can further reduce attention and energy. The pattern, timing, impact on daily life, medicines, physical health, and input from someone who knows the person all help a clinician understand what is happening.

Arrange a GP consultation when mood or thinking changes persist, interfere with routines, or concern family members. Keep a brief record of sleep, appetite, energy, mood, memory lapses, and activities that have become difficult. Bring all medicines and note recent illness, bereavement, pain, or changes at home. A clinician may check physical causes, review medicines, assess mood and cognition, and discuss talking support, practical routines, or treatment options. Use calm prompts and regular daily structure while awaiting assessment.

Seek urgent help if there are thoughts of suicide, threats of harm, severe agitation, hallucinations, sudden confusion, inability to eat or drink, or a rapid change from usual behaviour. Sudden confusion can have a physical cause and should not be assumed to be dementia or depression. Call emergency services if immediate safety is at risk, and stay with the person if it is safe to do so.

Ask which symptoms suggest depression, dementia, sleep problems, or another condition; what assessment is planned; whether medicines could contribute; how relatives can support monitoring; and which changes should prompt urgent contact.