How to Tell If Someone You Love Is Suffering From Depression
Everyone gets depressed or experiences symptoms of depression at some time in their life. This can be caused by a major life setback, grief or other issue that has affected us emotionally to the point that we become depressed. Usually, the depression is only temporary, and we pull out of it without assistance in a reasonable period of time. Sometimes, depression doesn't go away and it begins to create a negative impact in someone's life. This article discusses how you can tell if a friend or loved one is being affected by depression and what you can do to help.
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Instructions
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Remember that sadness or depression in itself is not an abnormal experience; it happens to just about everyone at some point in their life. Depression becomes a problem when it has a negative impact on life and prevents the person from living and functioning normally. If you notice that your loved one seems out of sorts, ask yourself how long this has been going on for. If it's a relatively short period of time, keep an eye on them and be supportive when you are needed, but don't jump to conclusions and assume that this person is suffering from depression and needs help when the condition may be temporary.
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If you notice that your loved one seems to be depressed for an extended period of time, more than a week or you notice that they are not functioning normally, it might be time for you to step in and help. People who are depressed can sometimes become so absorbed in their hurt that they may not even realize that they have become depressed and need help. Sometimes, the signs are clear, such as excessive crying, feelings of hopelessness and despair, and no longer participating in the activities that they used do. Isolation and missing work, refusing to leave the house and not communicating are also signs that you should be alert for. Depression in men can appear different from depression in women; you may notice that a man affected by depression may be short tempered or have frustrated outbursts or fits of anger. Pay close attention to any behavior that is not typical.
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Watch for signs that indicate that your friend or loved one might be suicidal or contemplating committing suicide. While there are some obvious signs of suicidal behavior, such as giving away possessions, leaving suicide letters and openly discussing the desire to stop living, more often than not, there are few warning signs that you will be able to notice easily. This is why it is most important to carefully monitor their emotional state as much as possible to ensure that they don't harm themselves and encourage them to seek treatment for their depression.
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Often, people who are depressed are reluctant to admit that they are depressed and are reluctant to get help. There are many options available to get treatment for depression and relief from sadness. There are many medications that are available to help ease or eliminate the symptoms of depression that can be prescribed by a physician on a long term or short term basis. Alternatively (or in addition to medication), you may suggest that your loved one attend some counseling or therapy to help get them back on track. You may wish to take your friend in to see a doctor for a professional evaluation, which will help determine whether or not they truly are suffering from depression. Most importantly, be alert, be aware and be available to support your friend or loved on in their time and need and hopefully they will be back to normal as soon as they are able to.
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Tips & Warnings
Pharmaceutical options for the treatment of depression work differently for different people. What works well for one person may not work for another. Be supportive and encourage the person to try different options until they find the right solution for their depression.
If you feel that someone you love is at risk of hurting themselves, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.
