Depression in some areas of the world is not quite known, it is a type of sickness most of us either ignore or don't want to talk about.

Every day we read about people committing suicides, using drugs and doing strange things in the process of dealing with or not being able to cope with the condition.
What really is depression ?

How does one know when a person is depressed?

More importantly, how does one react in that situation?

It is quite likely for us to feel puzzled and want to know why, when we suspect someone around us to be feeling depressed.

More often than knowing what to do, it is more critical to be concerned of what NOT to do or say at such times.

Here are some hints to keep to heart.

• Do not jump to conclusions

Being on the watchout for signs is good, but first and foremost do not to jump to conclusions about the diagnosis.

It is customary for almost all of us to feel sad or low, which we usually label as being depressed, at some time or the other in our lives.

Everyone goes through these moment or through a low mood that passes in no time. It is alright to feel low and out when trying to cope with loss or disappointments at work or at home.

These circumstances don't warrant the use of the services of a professional to help deal with the low moods.

• Don't over-diagnose the signs

It is paramount to be aware of the identifying signs which can be a cause to worry.

Some of the signs are:

[/b]Sadness of mood

Irregularity at work

Tiredness

Abstaining from social gathering

Sudden increase or decrease in appetite especially sweet things

Inability to sleep well.

Decreased fproductivity at work

Loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities

Feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness

Difficulty in attention and concentration

Difficulty in making decisions

(The person has) suicidal ideas

Frequent and unexplained complaints about his or her body

Increased irritability or anger on trivial issues[b]

• Don't give false hopes or false reassurances

It is human instinct for us to tell a person who is sad or worried -- 'Don't worry, everything will be alright'.

While it seems like a very normal or right statement to make, it is likely to be unrealistic or over-optimistic. It may also aggravate the individual further, instead of calming him/her.

Often there is not much you can actually do to change the situation yourself.

• Don't hesitate to talk

Start the conversation as it is important to give a chance to express their feelings and release their pent-up emotions.

It is a myth that talking about the problem aggravates the situation. Giving them a chance to vent out their feelings and emotions is more likely to help the person lighten the burden by being able to share it with someone who is concerned.

• Don't be too interrogative

If you think someone is suffering from depression, it is important for you to give the person a listening ear, and be non-judgmental.

Do not offer them unsolicited advice. Giving reassurance with active listening and engaging with the person is very beneficial. Try and empathize with the individual, to try and understand his or her emotions.

Show that you care for the person, and do not interrogate. The most effective role you can play is to be a listener, and offer your support.

• And lastly don't hesitate to reach out for help or suggest a positive action.

It is important to encourage the depressed person to seek the support of mental health experts to ensure adequate interventions and prevent adverse outcomes.

http://www.healththismoment.com/2017/07/how-to-deal-with-depression.html

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