Depression can hit anyone. It doesn’t matter whether it’s a family member, friend or work colleague.
Negative attitudes or single people, as well as success-oriented or eager people are often affected. Disasters such as losing a job, a breakup, or death can also trigger depression.

Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses and due to the high mortality rate, it should not be underestimated. Everyone experiences depression differently. Some sink into deep sadness, others only feel emptiness. The fact is that the thoughts and feelings get completely mixed up and that makes you hopeless.

Affected people often withdraw and fight the battle with themselves. They act like everyone else in public and are very good at hiding their problems. However, there are signs that can point to depression.

 

Signs and characteristics

  • Feels overwhelmed
  • Is sick more often than usual
  • Difficult to make decisions
  • Appears distant and has an “I don’t care” attitude
  • Does an above-average amount of sport or spends significantly more time at work
  • Frequently forgets appointments
  • You see language problems
  • Withdraws more and more and seeks no contact
  • Is afraid of the future and speaks openly about life and death

In addition, of course, the warning signs of depression also apply to those close to you.

There are a lot of signs you can use to spot depression in others. But only you can assess your counterpart well enough to know whether your help will be accepted.
Please do not overwhelm the person and try to avoid well-intentioned advice.
Always remember that depression is a recognized illness that should not be underestimated and should be treated with sensitivity if possible.

Here I link you to a great little companion for relatives and those affected.
Mit dem schwarzen Hund leben: Wie Angehörige und Freunde depressiven Menschen helfen können, ohne sich dabei selbst zu verlieren. *

 

How to address someone close to you?

  1. Speak up in case of suspicion and draw attention to changes
  2. Offer help
  3. Listen
  4. Periodically, cautiously offer help again, but only if it doesn’t overwhelm you

Your help can make life worth living again.