Feeling down or sad occasionally is normal. But if these feelings last for weeks unending, or start to affect one’s everyday life, this can be a sign of possible depression.
Depression can develop slowly. A person who is depressed doesn’t always realise that they do not feel or act as they usually do.
Oftentimes it’s a partner, family member or close friend who first realises the change In mood and behaviour.
Some noticeable signs of depression can include:
– Loss of interest in doing the things they normally enjoy
– Regularly feeling down or hopeless
– Slower speech and movements or fidgets and seems restless
– Feels tired or non-energetic
– Change in appetite of weight
– Irregular sleeping pattern: sleeps more often or can’t sleep at all
– Absentmindedness, loss of focus and concentration
Some signs may be particularly to much older people. The charity Age UK says that signs of depression in older people can include:
– Neglecting their appearance
– Poor hygiene
– Disinterest in receiving visitors
What can you do when you notice any of these signs in someone around you for prolong periods?
You can:
– Ask questions and show interest in their lives. Let them know you care and are there to listen
– Refrain from judging
– Gently urge them to help themselves. For example, by staying physically active, eating a balanced diet, and doing things they might enjoy.
– Try getting information on psychological centres in the neighbourhood as well as counselling and support groups.
– Stay in regular communication with them by messaging, texting, calling or having lunch.
– People who may be depressed will tend t isolate themselves and not want to go out, try not to force them. You can be available for them indoors.
– Be very patient.
– Know when and how to get urgent professional help.
Stay safe.
1 Comment
This I can relate to late last month when I first got my first job and my landlord asked me to vacate his house, it was terrible that all my hope was gone as where I thought to start from. I became depressed and tiring, people doubting my sincerity, frustration at work and family too on my neck. How many family members want to understand that you just got a work? At that moment I started thinking negative and inside of me need someone to talk to even if it’s just talking, pour out my mind and let them understand how I felt. At long run I key myself in reading bible, yes Bible and at the end everything become a story even though am yet satisfied but at least I am fine for time being