6 signs someone may be depressed and how you can help
It isn’t always obvious that someone close to us is struggling, particularly when they are experiencing depression. However, there are signs that something is wrong.
Have you noticed that they just aren’t themselves lately? Do they seem to be more emotional than usual or are they overreacting to little things? Do they seem more withdrawn than usual and perhaps aren’t taking your calls as often? Often it isn’t a single change that we notice but a combination of changes that raise our concerns. So how do we know what to look out for?
Here are 6 common signs that someone may not be ok.
- They no longer attend events or activities they used to enjoy.
Has that person close to you stopped returning your calls? Are they suddenly not turning up to social events or planned activities that they used to enjoy? Have they stopped watching their favourite Netflix series that they loved and watched religiously, because they are no longer enjoying it? A markedly diminished interest or pleasure in activities in a very common sign of depression. - Difficulty concentrating or inability to make decisions.
Have you notice that the person you care about has suddenly become poorly focused and has difficulty concentrating? Have you noticed they are procrastinating more than usual? Are they usually someone who usually makes decisions easily and with confidence and now they are finding they cannot arrive at a decision at all? A diminished ability to think or concentrate, including indecisiveness are common signs of depression. - Changed sleeping patterns.
Are you suddenly hearing comments increasing in frequency about fatigue and lethargy and an inability to sleep? Perhaps it is the opposite and the person who you care about is sleeping too much. Are you noticing they are sleeping in longer, or perhaps are spending all day in bed? Fatigue, in addition to insomnia or hypersomnia are all hallmark signs of depression. - A change in behaviour.
Have you noticed your friend is absent or less engaged in group chats lately? Or perhaps you have noticed they are far more active than usual on social media? Does your friend often seem like they are a completely different person, and are simply a shell of the person they used to be. This might look like someone getting angrier or more upset than usual and overreacting to the little things. They might suddenly burst into tears, crying at the commercial on tv. When someone is experiencing depression, they may feel sad and empty and struggle with getting through each and every day. A change in behaviour is one of the most common signs of depression. - A change in appetite.
Sometimes we may notice that the person we care about isn’t enjoying eating meals like they used to. Perhaps you have noticed they are eating less frequently or smaller portions, as they tell you they are not hungry. Perhaps you are noticing the opposite. Perhaps they are turning to food for comfort and are eating more than they used to. A change in appetite resulting in significant unintended weight loss or weight gain may be a sign that your loved one is experiencing depression. - Everything is negative.
If you are noticing someone who used to be confident and full of life is suddenly very negative and has nothing positive to say, it might be cause for concern. Have you noticed they are suddenly putting themselves down, are very critical of them selves and others, and their world is filled with everything that could go wrong? Loss of self-confidence, and feelings of worthlessness/hopelessness are other signs of depression, and this can be hard for the person to see the positives in themselves or any situation at all
You think your friend is depressed? How can you help?
If you think someone you care about it experiencing depression, there are several things you can do to help.
The first step is to talk to them. Talk to them about how they are feeling and ask them if there is anything wrong. Gently explain how you have noticed some changes in their behaviour and that you are concerned, reassuring them you will be there for them. You could encourage them to seek professional help by visiting their GP or Psychologist.
Here are some other ways to help:
- Accompany the person to any appointments if they decide to seek professional help and need additional support
- Start a regular exercise program together
- Check in with them regularly and reassure them you are here for them
If they disclose thoughts of suicide, it is important to explain that you may not be able to help them in the way that they need, however you will support them to find the person that can and encourage them to seek professional help right away. Have someone stay with them until they have spoken to a professional.
If it is an emergency and life is in danger, please call 000.
Crisis Contact Numbers:
Lifeline 131114
Kids Helpline 1800 55 1800
Suicide Callback Service 1300 659 467
MensLine 1300 789 978
Beyondblue 1300 224 636
If someone you know is showing signs of depression and would like additional support, the psychologists at Progressive Psychology would be more than happy to help. Please contact our office on 0477 798 932 and our friendly reception team will schedule you an appointment.
Rebecca Underwood is the Director and Principal Psychologist at Progressive Psychology.