Depression can be very debilitating and even life-threatening, especially when it’s not addressed properly. What should you do if your loved one is struggling with depression? Use this guide to help find the best way to support them.
What is the Difference Between Depression and Anxiety?
Depression is a medical condition that results from a combination of biological and psychological factors. It is a disorder that affects the way a person thinks, feels, and behaves. It is most often diagnosed in adults, but it can also occur in children and adolescents.
Anxiety is a type of anxiety disorder that is characterized by intense fear or worry, coupled with physical symptoms (such as headaches, shortness of breath, or heart palpitations). Anxiety disorders are the most common mental health problems in the United States. They affect almost millions of adults in the native American depression and they are more common in women than men.
The Signs of Depression
There are many signs that someone may be experiencing depression, but it’s important to know what they are so you can help.
Here are some of the most common signs that someone is depressed:
– They have a reduced appetite or an increased appetite but no change in weight
– They have difficulty sleeping or an increased need for sleep but no change in energy levels.
– They have a decrease in concentration or an increase in indecision.
– They have feelings of worthlessness or excessive guilt.
– They have recurrent thoughts of death, suicide, or hurting themselves.
– They experience mood swings, such as feeling happy one minute and then sad the next
The Causes of Depression
Depression is a serious mental illness that can affect anyone at any time. It’s caused by a combination of factors, including genetics, life experiences, and hormones. There’s no one cause of depression, and it doesn’t always respond to treatment.
But there are things you can do to help your loved ones when they experience depression. Here are some tips:
- Listen carefully. Depression is usually a private illness, and your loved one may not want to talk about it. But hearing about their feelings will help them feel less alone and more connected to you. Just be patient—you may not hear everything right away, but over time your loved one will likely open up more.
- Support their goals and dreams. Encouraging your loved one to keep doing what makes them happy can be important both during and after depression symptoms start to fade. This can help them feel like they’re still in control of their lives even when things are tough.
- Offer practical assistance. If your loved one is struggling with finances or housing issues, offer to help out as much as you can. This can provide some much-needed stability and peace of mind during this difficult time.
