Dana Mistretta shares how she went from clinically depressed to meds free.
How to Help Someone With Depression
It is often difficult to grasp the severity of depression in someone else particularly if you’ve never experienced it. However, being compassionate and responding to the needs of your loved one can help you understand their depression and be helpful. Remember that everyone is affected by depression in a different way therefore making assumptions about another person’s depression can make them feel uneasy and depressed.
What are the indicators of Depression
Depression can cause someone to feel depressed all the time and may make it difficult to engage in activities that usually make them happy. There are many signs of depression, and not everyone will experience all of them. If you’re experiencing one or more of these symptoms, you need to consult a physician to find out what you can do next.
Depression can start with simple feelings of sadness, but it can quickly escalate to more serious issues such as the inability to get up or concentrate, as well as thoughts of suicide. It can start slowly or suddenly and can be a long-term condition that lasts for weeks or even months. It can hinder a person’s ability and willingness to work, socialize, or spend quality time with family and friends. The signs may be difficult to spot in a person, so it is important to seek medical assistance when you begin to begin to notice them.
What are the signs of Depression?
Numerous symptoms and signs could be observed by those suffering from depression. Depression symptoms include lower mood and loss of interest in activities. A person may also experience thoughts of dying. While certain symptoms might be common to everyone, others may not. Discussing with your doctor about any changes in your life is essential so you can determine if you are suffering from depression.
Depressed people are unable to discern the reality. This can lead to excessive guilt or delusions. These thoughts can lead you to think of suicide or death. These thoughts could be an indication that you’re depressed even though they’re not common.
How to Help Someone who is Depression
You might be wondering how you can help those you love suffering from depression. It’s not an easy job, but there are many ways to show your that you are there to help and encourage someone who is suffering from depression. First, you must understand how depression affects the life of a person. Depression is a very common mental health issue, and it is treatable. A mental health professional can provide diagnosis and a treatment plan.
Whether you’re a professional or a family member, you should try to learn as much as you can about the illness. There are many indicators and signs of depression. It’s important to know about the various treatments. It is important to make time for yourself. Even if this doesn’t make you feel better, it can aid you in dealing with depression.
Encouragement to the person to seek help for their depression
If you know that your loved one is suffering from depression or not, you can assist them to seek help by offering them your support and encouragement. However, you shouldn’t pressurize them. Instead, suggest they seek help gently and honestly. Before you recommend treatment, you should learn more about the person and available treatment options in your area. Find mental health professionals as well as treatment centers and support groups in the area. Call ahead to find out more about admissions at an treatment center. Be sure not to schedule an appointment without the patient’s permission.
It is possible to use medication to treat depression. Consult a psychiatrist or primary care provider to determine whether medication is the best option. Some doctors prescribe light therapy to “awaken” the brain which can be beneficial during the winter months of darkness.
