Depression claims life of HB neighbor

By Denáe Brewer
Editor-in-Chief

Overwhelmed with frustration and despair, Thelma Jackson, a longtime resident of Highbridge, did what 40,000 Americans do each year — she took her own life. On Friday January 10, Ms. Jackson, a resident of 1131 Ogden Avenue, jumped off her 24th floor balcony.

“I can’t believe it,” said Jesse Alexander, Ms. Jackson’s neighbor. “I didn’t talk to her much, just hi and bye, but she seemed like a sweet lady.”

Ms. Jackson, 69, volunteered in Highbridge Community Life Center’s Fifty-five Alive program. She worked closely with children and helped with their schoolwork.

“She was a lovely lady,” said Camille Taylor, who also volunteers in the program. “I had no idea she would ever do something like that.” As with six million other Americans over 65, Ms. Jackson was depressed—a clinically recognized illness.

Police found antidepressant drugs and a suicide note alluding to her inability to cope. “In a case like this, the person often feels a sense of hopelessness,” said Lauren Edwards, a spokesperson from the New York City Department of the Aging. Commenting on the neighbors’ shock in hearing about Ms. Jackson’s actions, Ms. Edwards explained, “There were probably warning signs that this was going to happen, but no one realizes it until it’s too late.”

Elderly depression is not uncommon. According to the U.S. Administration on Aging, most elderly Americans experience some form of depression. Often the symptoms are not recognizable. Frequently, depression in the elderly is misinterpreted. The tell tale signs of depression — moodiness, sluggishness, irritability, and weight loss — are chalked up as being common characteristics of old age.

Another common mistake is denial. People experiencing a prolonged depression rarely seek help. “Often, they or their family feel that they should just snap out of it,” Ms. Edwards explained. “It’s easier said than done.”

“There is no trigger for depression,” Ms. Edwards said. “Anything from the loss of a spouse or poor health to celebrating another birthday can send a person spiraling into the abyss.”

Suicide is not common among women or people of color, but the rate has steadily increased over the past twenty years. According to statistics from the National Institute of Mental Health, suicide was the 11th highest cause of death in the U.S., with white males comprising 72 percent of the deaths.

Ms. Jackson is survived by her two sons, family and friends. “I just can’t believe it,” said Shelia Hanson, a Highbridge resident. “It just proves how precious life is. She will be missed.”

For more information on elderly depression, call (800) 677-1116 or visit www.aarp.org.