This tutorial will teach you how to identify the signs/symptoms of depression, and what you can do to help.
Signs and Symptoms of depression:
-you can’t sleep or you sleep too much
-you can’t concentrate or find that previously easy tasks are now difficult
-you feel hopeless and helpless
-you can’t control your negative thoughts, no matter how much you try
-you have lost your appetite or you can’t stop eating
-you are much more irritable, short-tempered, or aggressive than usual
-you’re consuming more alcohol than normal or engaging in other reckless -behavior
-you have thoughts that life is not worth living (seek help immediately if this is the case)
-lack of interest (could be in regards to anything, especially sex)
Step one: Accepting clinical treatment
Since depression is a medical condition, it requires medical care. It's improtant to know this, because all of the "love and care" in the world wouldn't cure depression. However, sessions with psychologists, a safe medication plan, and exercise can. "People that are depressed can't sleep it off; they can't avoid it," says Dr. Gollan. "You can give care and support, but it's not going to solve the problem."
Step two: Get active in their support
Support their treatment, drive them to Doctors appointments, pick up their medication for them if they request it, and don't let them ignore the issue, or put off seeing a Psychologist/Doctor. "If someone breaks their leg, they are taken to a doctor or hospital," says Gollan. "If someone has depression, they need medical care and psychological support."
Step thee: Communication
"This can reduce risk of suicide," says Gollan. "Listen carefully for signs of hopelessness and pessimism, and don't be afraid to call a treatment provider for help or even take them to the ER if their safety is in question." Talk about their triggers, and their fears assuming they're comfortable and ready.
Step four: Stay in touch
It's important to stay in touch with someone who's suffering from depression. People who suffer from depression generally don't like contact with other people. In their mind it's viewed as bothering them, and they'd rather be alone. "Activities that promote a sense of accomplishment, reward, or pleasure are directly helpful in improving depression," says Gollan. With this in mind, take them somewhere and do something they like to do, something with rewards like a sport/activity. Show positive reinforcement.
Step five: Focus on the little things
With depression, the simplest things can be challenging. This includes everything from making simple decisions to getting out of bed. Acknowledge their achievements and reward them if possible, it will give them a sense of achievement and boost their self esteem.. which most people who suffer from depression lack. "Depressive avoidance and passivity can be reduced through activation [to help the person regain a sense of reward] and small goals of accomplishment," says Gollan.
Step six: Learn about depression
If you're reading this thread, you're already on the right track. Books about depression can be useful, especially when they are reliable sources of advice or guidance that's known to help people with depression. Here is a list of some books you can read to better understand depression and the recovery process:
-The Feeling Good Handbook
-Mind Over Mood
-Overcoming Depression One Step At aTime.
Step seven: Encourage Doctor appointments.
Encourage the person to visit a physician or psychologist, they are certified professionals trained to cure depression. You can help by finding a physiologist for your loved one by looking online in your city.
Step eight: Pay attention
Keep an eye on their recovery, it's normal to relapse as long as they're moving forward. Moving forward can be defined by a new job, a new attitude, a new work out routine, etc. They will need your help through these tough times, whether or not they'd like to admit it.
I can only take credit for re-wording/summarizing/shortening.
Sources:
http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,..._2,00.html
http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,...st,00.html
http://www.helpguide.org/mental/depressi...atment.htm
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/de...ndex.shtml
Signs and Symptoms of depression:
-you can’t sleep or you sleep too much
-you can’t concentrate or find that previously easy tasks are now difficult
-you feel hopeless and helpless
-you can’t control your negative thoughts, no matter how much you try
-you have lost your appetite or you can’t stop eating
-you are much more irritable, short-tempered, or aggressive than usual
-you’re consuming more alcohol than normal or engaging in other reckless -behavior
-you have thoughts that life is not worth living (seek help immediately if this is the case)
-lack of interest (could be in regards to anything, especially sex)
Step one: Accepting clinical treatment
Since depression is a medical condition, it requires medical care. It's improtant to know this, because all of the "love and care" in the world wouldn't cure depression. However, sessions with psychologists, a safe medication plan, and exercise can. "People that are depressed can't sleep it off; they can't avoid it," says Dr. Gollan. "You can give care and support, but it's not going to solve the problem."
Step two: Get active in their support
Support their treatment, drive them to Doctors appointments, pick up their medication for them if they request it, and don't let them ignore the issue, or put off seeing a Psychologist/Doctor. "If someone breaks their leg, they are taken to a doctor or hospital," says Gollan. "If someone has depression, they need medical care and psychological support."
Step thee: Communication
"This can reduce risk of suicide," says Gollan. "Listen carefully for signs of hopelessness and pessimism, and don't be afraid to call a treatment provider for help or even take them to the ER if their safety is in question." Talk about their triggers, and their fears assuming they're comfortable and ready.
Step four: Stay in touch
It's important to stay in touch with someone who's suffering from depression. People who suffer from depression generally don't like contact with other people. In their mind it's viewed as bothering them, and they'd rather be alone. "Activities that promote a sense of accomplishment, reward, or pleasure are directly helpful in improving depression," says Gollan. With this in mind, take them somewhere and do something they like to do, something with rewards like a sport/activity. Show positive reinforcement.
Step five: Focus on the little things
With depression, the simplest things can be challenging. This includes everything from making simple decisions to getting out of bed. Acknowledge their achievements and reward them if possible, it will give them a sense of achievement and boost their self esteem.. which most people who suffer from depression lack. "Depressive avoidance and passivity can be reduced through activation [to help the person regain a sense of reward] and small goals of accomplishment," says Gollan.
Step six: Learn about depression
If you're reading this thread, you're already on the right track. Books about depression can be useful, especially when they are reliable sources of advice or guidance that's known to help people with depression. Here is a list of some books you can read to better understand depression and the recovery process:
-The Feeling Good Handbook
-Mind Over Mood
-Overcoming Depression One Step At aTime.
Step seven: Encourage Doctor appointments.
Encourage the person to visit a physician or psychologist, they are certified professionals trained to cure depression. You can help by finding a physiologist for your loved one by looking online in your city.
Step eight: Pay attention
Keep an eye on their recovery, it's normal to relapse as long as they're moving forward. Moving forward can be defined by a new job, a new attitude, a new work out routine, etc. They will need your help through these tough times, whether or not they'd like to admit it.
I can only take credit for re-wording/summarizing/shortening.
Sources:
http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,..._2,00.html
http://www.health.com/health/gallery/0,,...st,00.html
http://www.helpguide.org/mental/depressi...atment.htm
http://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/de...ndex.shtml
