Following the tragic recent news about Caroline Flack, it just goes to show you can never tell what is going on in someones head. This guide is designed so that hopefully it is helpful not just for you, but for someone else you know. You never know it may even save someone’s life. I know from my own experience with anxiety and depression that recognising the signs was hard until I knew what I was looking for. Now I am informed I can see the signs of depression as soon as they start to creep back.
What is Depression
Depression and anxiety are known for going hand in hand. however, depression is different in its own way. Depression is more than just feeling low or down a little bit or the odd bad day, it is a constant depression and sadness over a period of weeks even months perhaps years. If you’re thinking it is trivial and nothing to worry about, you are wrong. It is in-fact an illness and is a real condition that needs help treating. The good news is that there is treatment available and it is possible to make a full recovery.
Signs of Depression
There are some key symptoms to look for in order to highlight whether you or someone has depression. A hopeless outlook with increasing severity, a loss of interest in all things including things you love. fatigue and sleep problems, anxiety ( I will create a post on this at a later date). Changed in appetite and weight. This was a big one for me I gained over 2 stone during my struggle with depression. Uncontrollable emotions and of course suicidal thoughts and feelings, ultimately feeling like it would be easier if your life was to end. Suicidal thoughts may be for people who have more severe depression but the hill from low to severe depression is a steep one and it can all happen very sudden.
What causes depression
Depression can be a genetic issue, those with family members who have previously suffered with or still continue to suffer with depression are more likely to experience it themselves.
Sometimes it is a trigger, often life changing events. It can be anything from losing a job or a family member, giving birth to a traumatic event.
When to see a doctor / Seek medical help?
It is of the height of importance to see your GP as soon as possible if you think you have depression. If you are already experiencing suicidal thoughts you should seek attention immediately by form of an emergency GP appointment or even your local crisis team.
The road to recovery is a long and laborious one. So it is key to get started as soon as possible and starting moving forward on the journey to a better place.
Treating and living with Depression
So for a lot of people, myself included a full recovery from Depression may be difficult. But there are a lot of things you can implement yourself to improve your quality of life and help assist your recovery.
You can find some handy guides and activities on the mind website, personally I like to wind down with an audiobook at the end of the day. You can also find professional help in your area by searching for qualified therapists here.
However, just know there is always help available 24/7. The samaritans offer support for those feeling depressed, suicidal or vunerable 24 hours a day 365 days of the year. Their website is www.samaritans.org, you can email them on jo@samaritans.org or call anytime free on 116 123.