Depression can be deceptive, sometimes it is not easy to identify depression in oneself, much less be aware if a friend, brother, boyfriend, wife, father or collaborator suffers. There are symptoms that can be recognizable and tell us that something is not right, but at the speed with which we live and the levels of stress to which we submit, we are often prevented from understanding the needs of someone else. However, we must understand that the welfare of the other is as important as ours, because affective ties are crucial for development as people, enjoy good health and have a better quality of life.
Depression is a disease that according to the Royal College of Psychiatrists affects 20% of people. That is, 1 in 5 individuals experience it at some time in their lives. Although its characteristics, the phenomenon influences the lives of those around a depressed person: parents, siblings, couple, friends, as well as the work and social environment.
If someone close to you shows one or several of these attitudes, it is better not to lose sight of it.
1. Loss of interest in activities that were previously pleasurable.
Also known as "anhedonia", this sudden loss of pleasure may not be general or complete, but if the person is sufficiently known, it is easy to identify.
2. Difficulty falling asleep.
There are people who have periods of insomnia or who have suffered throughout their lives and who have more or less learned to cope with it. But outside these cases, the difficulties to sleep can indicate a more serious problem, especially if it is a chronic or acute problem. Of course, not all lack of sleep is a symptom of depression, but it is important to take it into account within the symptom picture.
3. Sudden changes in diet.
This can be eating a lot or eating little and is often reflected in weight variations. Also those who are depressed can choose foods that are not regularly consumed. These eating disorders can also be derived from a gastrointestinal problem, we must take that into account. It is pertinent to go to the doctor in any way.
4. Anger and irritability.
A depressed person has a hard time spending the day. Obstacles and ordinary challenges become more difficult and cause frustration and other feelings related to it. This can be very difficult for those around you constantly. The first thing you can do is try to understand that this type of change is a reflection of your inner suffering, on the other hand who experiences these ups and downs can benefit from understanding that you are not alone and there are specialists who can guide you out of depression.
5. Expression of negative thoughts.
You can feel enthusiasm for a fact and your friend return to the horrible side of reality, methodically. You have to be careful not to take that negative person lightly and underestimate their sarcasm. Maybe he really sees all his days that way, gray and sad. It will be better to listen to it a little, to delve into its negativity. On the other hand the sarcastic do not need to identify with this way of thinking, come is a resource of humor and humor is good, but if in fact it is a way in which it is released to true negative feelings that can not be To express otherwise will be good to seek help. It is difficult to cut it when you are depressed but the reality is that there are people interested in developing different ways to help those who suffer from this evil. There are many tools and options.
Everyone can have a difficult day and feel overwhelmed and sad. Now imagine that there are people for whom everything is difficult, always. This can be a good start if you want to help someone close to you who is depressed. On the other hand, remember that it is good for him or her to know that you are there. Do not hesitate to look for a private moment to ask how he is, how he feels and remind him how much he loves you. It is important to make it clear that depression does not make it weak or inferior, which is something very common and part of the human experience. The fundamental thing in these cases is to support them and remind them that there are options and hope, since the latter is what gives us strength and courage to move forward. This is what Martin Luther King was referring to when he said:
"We must accept a finite disappointment, but never lose an infinite hope."