How to Help Someone With Depression
If you have a friend or family member who is suffering from depression, you might be wondering how to support them. The good news is that there are many ways to support someone who is suffering from depression. Read on to learn more about the signs and symptoms of depression, and tips for talking to someone about their feelings. Listed below are some ways to support someone you care about. Getting your loved one the help they need is easy when you know what to look for.
What Are The Signs Of Depression
While feeling down from time to time is perfectly normal, it can quickly turn into depression. This illness can disrupt your daily life and interfere with your ability to work, study, eat, sleep, and even enjoy your social life. There are several signs of depression and different ways to detect it. These symptoms can vary from person to person, but they are all indicative of this illness. To spot depression, take a depression test to find out if you’re experiencing any of them.
Although a diagnosis of depression is difficult to obtain without a proper physical exam, your doctor will look for specific symptoms when diagnosing it. A doctor will ask you about recent events, including traumatic incidents, to determine if there’s a physical reason for your depression. If you suspect that you’re depressed, your doctor may also check for other problems, including thyroid disorders and an underactive thyroid. Despite these common signs, it is important to remember that you should not feel ashamed to seek professional help.
What Are The Symptoms Of Depression
There are no definitive tests for depression, but your doctor can make a diagnosis based on your symptoms. If you’re experiencing persistent sadness or thoughts of suicide, your doctor may check your thyroid. Otherwise, you may have an underactive thyroid. Your symptoms might also be caused by a physical problem, such as a weakened immune system. Your doctor will decide how to treat you based on your symptoms, including recommending antidepressants.
People who are depressed may feel hopeless, useless, or isolated from family and friends. Many even consider suicide. Many people who are depressed report their sadness doesn’t improve when they do ordinary activities. Other symptoms include emptiness, apathy, and a lack of motivation. The symptoms of depression often begin suddenly and last for several months. However, some depressed individuals have a longer period of depressive symptoms.
How To Support Somone With Depression
When you want to support someone who is suffering from depression, it’s important to understand that it’s not possible to do everything for them. If you have a loved one who is dealing with depression, it’s important to remember that they need their space. Try to avoid offering unsolicited advice or judging their emotions. Instead, be a source of comfort and support by sharing what you know. If the person is suffering from severe depression, they will likely need someone to talk to.
People who suffer from depression often feel a deep sense of guilt. They may think they’re a burden to others and that their loved ones would be better off without them. To help combat these feelings, try to tell them that they’re important to you. This will ease the frustration and anger that often accompany depression. Depression resources can also provide more information on how to support someone who is suffering from depression. It’s important that you try to remember that this illness is not their fault and they need your support.
How to talk to someone about depression
The first step to talking to someone with depression is to recognize that they are dealing with a debilitating condition. People with depression often feel hopeless and angry at themselves. Simply acknowledging that they are going through a difficult time is a great way to encourage them. The person may also be in therapy, so try to keep your comments positive and encouraging. If the person is able to receive your words of support, they will feel more accepted and heard.
Another way to talk to someone with depression is to ask what they need. Sometimes people with depression are reluctant to discuss their problems, but if you ask, they will most likely be willing to open up. Try to ask them if they need anything, and don’t dismiss them if they say no. Acknowledge that their issues are real and validate their feelings, but don’t push the conversation. Instead, listen to the person and try to understand their feelings and help them open up.
Encouraging the person to get help with their depression
When you are trying to encourage someone to seek treatment for depression, remember that you are not the only one who needs it. There may be other family members or friends who are also struggling with mental illness and should consider seeking help. If the person is suffering from high levels of stress or addiction, for example, they may not be aware of the effects it is having on their loved one. If this is the case, you can also try getting help yourself, such as therapy or counseling.
If the individual with depression is suicidal, call 911 or the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline right away. You can also take a 2-minute depression quiz to determine whether he or she needs help. Do not take away the person’s autonomy or try to distract them with activities. Instead, try to offer a source of comfort and support. If all else fails, encourage the person with depression to seek help.
