How To Spot If Someone Close To You Is Struggling With Depression

What Are the Common Signs Of Depression and How To Help?

Depression - What To Look Out For and How To Support

We all go through difficult times in life and can experience low moods as a result. But how can we spot when someone close to us is going through a mental health crisis and struggling with depression?

Everyone is different but listed below are the common signs and symptoms of depression and what to look out for in those closest to you so that you can recognise if they are suffering from their mental health, and how you can help and support them.

• Typically a lingering low, sad, helpless, or hopeless mood that has been consistent for a very minimum of two weeks, and which doesn’t improve despite positive changes in circumstances or situation.

• Tearful, irritable, intolerant, angry, prone to emotional outbursts that are both fairly regular and very out of character

• Low productivity, presenteeism

• No motivation or interest in usual activities & hobbies, or enjoyment out of life - social withdrawal

• Lack of energy.

• Sleep problems/weight changes/lack of interest in hygiene or appearance

• Anxious/worries

• Self-harming or suicidal thoughts

Keep the above in mind and be alert to notice any changes in the person’s ‘normal.’ If you do notice any of the above changes in them, over a period of time, talk to them. Tell them that you have noticed that they don’t seem like their old self, that you are worried, that you are there for them, and ask them what you can do to support or help them. Don’t judge them. Don’t add in your ‘stuff’ or opinions. Don’t try and fix or diagnose them. Instead, offer them time, compassion, a non-judgemental listening ear, suggestions of where they could get professional help (GP, Samaritans, MIND, CALM, SOS, Counselling, Life Coach, and free internet apps (Headspace, Action For Happiness, etc), and listen to helpful free podcasts (eg., Happy Place by Fearn Cotton).

Most importantly though, follow it up. Give them time and continue to support them. It will not be a once-only conversation. Check-in on them frequently, regularly grabbing a coffee or a walk, phoning them to see how they are, texting to let them know you are still there, including them in social events when they feel ready.

However, if you are deeply concerned about their welfare and they are talking about suicide, then always bear in mind that you can take them to the A & E department of your local hospital where they will have a Psychiatric Team. Similarly, you can call 999 or NHS 111 (the UK only) if you are deeply concerned. Samaritans are free and open 24 hours a day for you to talk to if the conversation affects you, and/or for the person suffering from depression and mental health issues.

More than anything, know that your support and kindness - your willingness to broach the subject - could be truly life-changing, and possibly life-saving, for that person. Please don’t avoid the conversation……. be brave, and ask them how they are feeling and explain that you’re worried about them. They may not open up the first time - some people feel ashamed or ‘weak’ - but if we stand alongside them, continue to show we care and explain that we’d like to help, they might just open up, pour it out, and start to get better.

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