Warning Signs of Depression

Depression has been linked to various physical diseases. Some diagnoses, such as hepatitis C, can leave a patient feeling isolated or burdened by the ability to infect others, according to HCV Advocate. In older adults, conditions like heart disease, stroke and cancer may be accompanied by depression, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Older adults also are at risk for a condition called vascular depression, in which stiffened blood vessels restrict blood flow to the brain. Other diseases that commonly linked to depression include HIV/AIDS, Parkinson’s, COPD and diabetes.