Heather Lincicome, LCSW, Administrator for the Tallahassee Memorial Behavioral Health Center and Chief Liaison Officer at Apalachee Center, unpacks major depression (or clinical depression) – what it is, signs and symptoms and how to help yourself or a loved one.

Tallahassee Memorial Behavioral Health Center: TMH.ORG/MentalHealth
Apalachee Centre: Apalacheecenter.org

How to Help Someone With Depression

It’s easy to feel helpless when you know someone suffering from depression. It’s often hard to empathize, especially if you have not experienced it. It is possible to learn more about depression to aid in understanding it better. There are numerous resources online on depression with regards to symptoms and treatment options. It is easier to assist someone suffering from depression by knowing more about it.

What are the signs of Depression

Depression is a complicated mental health issue that can cause an individual to feel a sense of sadness and hopelessness. It can also cause the loss of interest in the activities that used to be a source of enjoyment. A variety of symptoms can be experienced by those who suffer from depression. These symptoms can include occasional sadness or intense feelings of despair that could last weeks to months. The symptoms of depression might not be evident to someone who is depressed at first and they may try to cope with the symptoms and not realize that they’re suffering from a depressive illness.

Physical fatigue is among the most common symptoms of depression. It can make it difficult for you to get up from bed. These symptoms should be promptly reported to your doctor. It is crucial to remember that depression can affect men and women of all age groups. Not everyone will suffer from the same symptoms. Talking about traumatic events is a great way to determine if you are suffering from depression. The doctor might also ask you about recent events that have caused you to be traumatized.

What are the symptoms of Depression?

What are the signs of depression when looking at the options for treatment? If you’re feeling a little lonely or sad you may be thinking of suicide. These thoughts can be scary for your family and friends and can be difficult to manage. Some people die by cutting off contact with family and friends. A doctor can diagnose depression and suggest treatment to make you feel better. If you are suffering from severe or persistent symptoms, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention.

Doctors typically diagnose depression as a “depressive episode” and can also state it as mild, moderate or severe. Recurrent episodes may indicate that you suffer from recurrent depression. There may not be any signs of depression each time you feel down but you may be experiencing frequent episodes. If you want to get treatment for depression, you may need to consult a psychiatrist.

How To Support Somone With Depression

You may be wondering what to do if your loved one is suffering from depression. Depression can be extremely overwhelming and lonely. There are many ways you can assist your loved one. Plan together, assign small tasks and remember to take care of yourself too. It is important to take good care of yourself. Find ways to make every day as relaxing as is possible.

Ask your loved ones to be open to sharing information whenever you can. The signs of depression differ from one person to the next. It’s important to remember that someone suffering from depression might not want advice from others. Instead ask specific questions and express your concerns. If you’re not sure how to assist someone suffering from depression, try asking them in person instead of by phone. Most people don’t realize they have problems and aren’t aware of how to seek help.

How to discuss depression with someone?

If you’re worried that a loved one is suffering from depression, here’s a tip for you: try to be active with them. Engaging in conversation with family members or friends can allow you to relax and organize your thoughts. If your loved one is willing, chat with them about how they’re feeling. This can be an excellent way to share your own experience and offer help. This will help you comprehend their condition.

It doesn’t matter if you ask how you can assist, provide assistance or simply listen to their story. People suffering from depression frequently feel hopeless. Sometimes, depression can trigger feelings of shame or guilt. It is crucial to keep in mind that depression is an extremely complex illness. It is not advisable to give advice or solutions that they don’t need. If you ask them, they’ll most likely have considered these suggestions before.

Inspiring the person to seek help for depression

Reminding someone with depression of the reasons they should seek help can make them feel more motivated. Remind them that they shouldn’t cause harm to themselves and that they should dial 911 when it begins to occur. Depression is not the fault of anyone, and it is important to understand that the only way to treat it is through proper treatment. If a person is resistant to getting help, they might be too worried or scared to talk about it. It is possible for them to be unsure of the result. They may be resistant to help or unsure what to do. They need your support, reassurance and information.

Although it can be tempting to request assistance, it’s best not to force someone into it. The person might be resistant to your suggestions, which is why it’s better not to push the issue. Instead you can suggest to the person that they seek help. Don’t encourage them. It’s a common error to allow someone to make an even worse situation. People who help others increase their behavior, without realizing that they are doing it themselves. Don’t “save” the person suffering from depression from depression by telling them you’re willing to help them.