depression

[Ashy5]

I have someone very close to me who has been feeling really depressed lately and acting totally out of character I feel helpless and dont know what to do for him.Can someone help me please?

[loopyc]

can you get him to the docs? if not you just have to be a good friend listen to him be there though the ups and downs, dont take it personnaly if he seems not to want you there. you could also get him to excersise with you this is great for depression i no this for a fact as i also suffer.

[tingirl]

I wouldn't recommend anti-depressants. The best thing is b-complex vitamins (which sort out the nervous system and are amazing) and bach's rescue remedy - you can get them both at health food shops. Also try suggesting a holiday - it's always good to have something to look forward to. Good luck :)

[Octavius]

Are we really talking 'depression' or is it a case of your friend being down in the dumps because of something that has happened in his life (relationship over, job loss etc etc).

If it is that they are down in the dumps then this may be temporary in which case as said above, just let them know that you are around if they need you and are happy to meet up and talk any time.

If we are talking real depression (which can be caused by an extended period of being down in the dumps or by a life changing event, or even hereditary) then they may need some professional help and you can encourage them to do this.

I don't mean to demean depression in what I have said, just that many people can feel depressed but are not really (medically) suffering from 'depression'.

Support and friendship is the real key whichever it is.

[silverdaler]

Are they 'depressed' or just feeling very sad at the moment - there is a big difference. Sadness is a state ofmind, depression is an illness. if you are concerned you would need a professional diagnosis.

[silverdaler]

octavius said it in more detail

[Ashy5]

Hi octavius, I think its real depression,though I cant be completely sure. He has been like this for about 3 weeks and this weekend even cried uncontrollably infront of me but he himself does not know y..this is really not like him as he is normally a very closed person

[Octavius]

There is obviously something triggering this (even subconsciously) and I think that if it has been about 3 weeks he should go and see his GP for a chat and a check over.

[Ashy5]

I will do what I can to get him to go talk to someone..Thank you!! Thanx all for your advice!!