Introduction

• Depression is a common and serious medical illness that negatively affects how you feel, the way you think and how you act. It can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems and can decrease your ability to function at work and at home.
• Depression symptoms can vary from mild to severe and can include:
  • Feeling sad or having a depressed mood
  • Loss of interest or pleasure in activities once enjoyed
  • Changes in appetite — weight loss or gain unrelated to dieting
  • Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
  • Loss of energy or increased fatigue
  • Difficulty thinking, concentrating, making decisions
  • Restlessness or feeling slowed down
  • Feeling worthless or guilty
  • Thoughts of death or suicide

How to Help Someone Who is Depressed

• Be there for them. Let your loved one know that you are there for them and that you care about them. Let them know that you are willing to listen to them and that you will not judge them.
• Encourage them to get professional help. If your loved one is struggling with depression, encourage them to seek professional help. A therapist can help your loved one understand their depression and develop coping mechanisms.
• Help them to take care of themselves. This may include things like helping them to eat healthy, get enough sleep, and exercise. It is also important to help them to avoid alcohol and drugs, as these can worsen depression symptoms.
• Don’t give up on them. It is important to remember that depression is a treatable illness. With time and support, your loved one can recover from depression and live a happy and fulfilling life.

Conclusion

Depression is a serious illness, but it is treatable. If you are concerned that someone you know may be depressed, please encourage them to seek professional help. With the right support, your loved one can recover from depression and live a happy and fulfilling life.