When someone we know or are familiar with takes their own life, it always leaves us in a state of shock and disbelief. This is because suicide is a tragic and devastating event that affects not only the person who dies but also their loved ones and acquaintances. We find it hard to comprehend how someone can choose to end their own life because we understand that the decision to end one’s life is not made lightly. It typically arises from enduring difficult circumstances and feeling overwhelmed by the challenges one faces. This leads us to introspection, prompting questions like, “Why did they make this choice?” “They seemed fine; why didn’t anyone notice?” “The last time I saw them, they appeared so content.” “This person seemed to have everything going for them. What could have pushed them into depression?” The questions can seem endless. We wonder how someone could do such a thing and why we didn’t see it coming.
Why You May Miss The Signs Of Depression
Depression is a common and serious mental health condition that affects millions of people around the world. It can cause persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, guilt, worthlessness, and loss of interest in activities that used to bring joy. Depression can also interfere with daily functioning, such as work, school, relationships, and self-care.
It is important to note that depression is not a sign of weakness or a character flaw. It is a treatable illness that requires professional help.
Depression is not always visible or obvious. Not everyone struggling with depression will display obvious signs of it. While some individuals with depression may openly manifest all the classic symptoms, others are adept at concealing their inner turmoil and masking their emotional state.
They may appear to be happy and successful on the outside. This is because they may not want to burden others with their problems, or they may feel ashamed or hopeless. That is why we are left with so many questions and regrets when they are gone. We wonder what we could have done differently or how we could have helped them.
Signs of Depression You Shouldn’t Ignore
If you suspect that someone you know or care about is depressed, you may wonder how to recognize the signs and what you can do to help them. Here are 10 common signs of depression and some tips on how to support a loved one who is struggling.
1. Changes in Mood
A person who is depressed may experience frequent or persistent feelings of sadness, emptiness, or despair. They may also experience mood swings such as irritability, anger, anxiety, or apathy. They may cry more often or for no apparent reason. When you notice someone constantly feeling down, it is a red flag.
2. Withdrawal and Isolation
People struggling with depression often withdraw from social activities. They lose interest in hobbies, activities, or social events that they used to enjoy. They could also have difficulty finding pleasure or satisfaction in anything they do. Also, they may cancel plans, avoid gatherings, withdraw from social contact, avoid friends, family, or other people, and isolate themselves. It is important to keep an eye on friends and family who become increasingly distant.
3. Changes in Sleep Patterns
Depression can disrupt a person’s sleep schedule. An individual who is depressed may have trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up. They may sleep too much or too little, or have poor quality sleep. They may also have nightmares or disturbing dreams.
4. Changes in Appetite or Weight
Depression can affect eating habits. A person who is depressed may experience changes in their appetite or weight. They may eat more or less than usual or have cravings for unhealthy foods. They may also have digestive problems, such as nausea, constipation, or diarrhea. Pay attention if someone’s relationship with food takes a sudden shift.
5. Fatigue, Low Energy, or Loss of Motivation
Constant tiredness and a lack of energy are common symptoms of depression. Depression may also lead to a loss of motivation or willpower to do anything. An individual struggling with depression may feel tired or exhausted all the time and have difficulty completing tasks. They may feel physically drained, even after resting, and also lack the initiative to do anything, even things that are necessary or important.
6. Feelings of Worthlessness or Guilt
Pay attention to how someone talks about themselves. People with depression may engage in self-criticism and express feelings of worthlessness. They may feel excessively guilty or ashamed of themselves or their actions. Also, they may blame themselves for things that are not their fault or dwell on past mistakes or failures. They may also feel like a burden to others, blame themselves for their depression or for the problems they face, or feel that they do not deserve happiness.
7. Physical Symptoms
Depression can manifest through unexplained physical symptoms such as headaches, backaches, muscle pain, chest pain, dizziness, digestive issues, or body aches. These symptoms can be an indicator, especially when there’s no apparent physical cause. The individual may also have a lowered immune system and be more prone to infections or illnesses.
8. Hopelessness
Another telltale sign of depression is feeling hopeless or having a negative or pessimistic outlook on life. A depressed person may feel that nothing will ever get better or that they have no control over their situation.
9. Difficulty Concentrating or Making Decisions
Individuals who are depressed may have difficulty concentrating, remembering, or making decisions. They may be easily distracted, forgetful, or confused. They may also have trouble following instructions, organizing their thoughts, or expressing themselves clearly.
10. Thoughts of Self-Harm
Perhaps the most alarming sign individuals struggling with depression might have are thoughts of self-harm or suicide. They may express a wish to die, a belief that they would be better off dead, or even make plans or attempts to harm themselves. If you suspect this, it is imperative to seek professional help immediately.
What Can You Do To Help?
If you notice any of these signs in someone you care about, you should not ignore them or assume that they will go away on their own. Depression is a serious condition that requires professional help and treatment.
Here are some ways you can help a loved one who is depressed:
1. Listen Non-Judgmentally
This is not the time to admonish them for feeling that way or tell them to “get over it”. Show empathy and compassion. Let them know that you understand what they are going through. Be there to lend a compassionate ear without offering unsolicited advice or judgment. Sometimes, people just need someone to talk to. Listen to them without judging, criticizing, or offering advice. Validate their feelings and express your concern. Just let them know that you are there for them and that you care.
2. Encourage Professional Help
Depression is not something that can be overcome by willpower alone. It requires professional treatment from a doctor, therapist, or counselor, so encourage them to seek help. Urge them to make an appointment as soon as possible or offer to help them find a therapist if they want. Also, offer to accompany them to see a therapist or counselor if they need support.
3. Provide Practical Assistance
Depression can make it hard for people to take care of themselves and their responsibilities. You can help by offering to do some chores, run some errands, cook some meals, or take care of some bills for them. You can also support them in following their treatment plan and help by reminding them to take their medication if they are prescribed any.
4. Invite Them To Join You
Depression can make people feel isolated and lonely. You can help by inviting them to spend time with you and do some activities that they enjoy or used to enjoy. Don’t pressure them to participate if they don’t feel like it, but let them know that you are always ready to have fun with them.
5. Be patient and Supportive
Don’t expect them to snap out of it or get better overnight. Depression can take time to heal and recovery is not always linear. There may be ups and downs along the way and some setbacks or relapses. You can help by being patient and supportive throughout the process and celebrating their progress and achievements.
6. Avoid Stigmatizing Language
Be mindful of the language you use. Avoid derogatory terms or phrases that may further stigmatize mental health issues. Learn about depression and its treatment options to better understand what your friend or family member is going through.
As you do all of these, don’t forget to take care of yourself and your own mental health as well. Supporting someone who is depressed can be stressful and exhausting, so make sure you have your own support network and coping strategies.
Depression can affect anyone at any age, gender, race, or background. It is not something to be ashamed of or ignored. Although it is a challenging journey, with the right support, it can be manageable.
If you think someone you know is depressed, do not hesitate to reach out and offer your help. If you think someone is in immediate danger of harming themselves, please call your local emergency number right away. You could make a difference in their life.
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