by Z. Blake

Created on: April 09, 2011

Talking to a friend who is suffering with depression is often something people get very fearful about. We don't know what to think, say or do. We often worry we'll say the wrong thing and make it worse or we worry that we'll cause offence. Often we adopt the unintentionally patronising mentality of "you'll be fine, it will pass". So, let me start by saying do not let your fears and worries stop you from broaching the subject with your friend and don't underestimate what they are experiencing.

What is Depression?

Before talking to your friend about their depression you need to understand what it is. One broad way of looking at depression is as prolonged sadness. Depression can range from mild depression that isn't usually externally noticeable and doesn't tend to impact ones life too drastically to severe depression which is virtually incapacitating. The main symptoms of depression are as follows:

1. Sleep problems (too much sleep, or too little sleep, or early or frequent waking etc.)

2. Poor concentration

3. Change in appetite resulting in weight change (can be weight gain or loss).

4. Feelings or sadness, guilt, or worthlessness.

5. Loss of interest in things they used to find pleasurable (hobbies and activities).

6. Physical pain- headaches, tummy aches etc. (this may be due to other medical issues and doctor should be consulted).

7. Irritability or agitation.

8. Exhaustion, constant lack of energy.

9. Suicidal thoughts.

If any one is experiencing several of these symptoms for 2 or more weeks they are likely experiencing depression and should go see someone about it.

People going through this are sometimes so down in the dumps and lacking in motivation that they don't want to get out of bed in the morning, they don't want to socialise, they can't be bothered with personal hygiene and they may find things like going to work or school nearly impossible. It is a really tough place to be in because it involves being trapped in a cycle of negative thoughts and feelings. The person experiencing it can feel very hopeless as a result.

Is your friend feeling suicidal?

The first thing you need to do is make a judgement call about how severe your friends depression is and if there is any risk of them attempting suicide. If they express feelings of not seeing the point any more, not seeing a future, or wanting to die, then you need to find help for them immediately.

This isn't something you can help them through on your own. Never take this sort of thing lightly, even

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