Depression - Information for Families
by Jonathan Kessler, M.A., M.F.C.C.
Depression is an serious illness marked by depressed mood (feeelings of sadness or
emptiness) and/or the loss of interest in (or pleasure from) nearly all
activities. Symptoms may also include changes in eating habits, weight
gain or loss, changes in sleep or activity patterns, decreased energy,
and difficulty concentrating or making decisions. A depressed person
may also have recurrent thoughts of death and may actually
attempt suicide. The danger of suicide is a serious consideration in
cases of severe depression.
For some general thoughts on dealing with a loved one's diagnosis of a mental
illness such as depression, please see our
"Mental Illness - Information for Families" page.
Depression is a very real illness. Generally, the depressed person cannot
simply "snap out of it", and attempts to get them to do so may be equally
frustrating to the depressed person and the would-be "helper". The
depressed person genuinely needs additional love, support, and understanding
to help them through their illness. There are many resources for combatting
depression, including psychiatrists and other psychotherapists, peer counseling, group therapy
sessions, and hotlines. Help is always available, and low-cost assistance
is there for those who need it.
The possibility of suicide is a real danger of depression. Many people
are surprised to learn that suicide attempts are most common when the
depressed person has begun to show signs of recovery. It appears that it is when
the severely depressed person begins to recover that they have the energy to
act on their suicidal thoughts. It is important for family and friends to
recognize that just because the depressed person has begun to show signs of
improvement they are not yet "out of the woods", and are still in need
of the additional love and support of their friends and family.
Some severely depressed people may experience psychotic symptoms, including
auditory hallucinations ("hearing voices"), visual hallucinations, or
delusional thoughts. These symptoms appear real to the affected person,
and should not be taken lightly. Consultation with a psychiatrist may be
helpful in these cases, and the symptoms should go away with treatment.
Depression has been treated with a variety of therapeutic techniques, including
medication, vitamins, and a wide range of "talk" therapies. Electroshock
was employed extensively in the past, but is currently rarely used, and only
in severe cases. Recent advances and the introduction of new medications
(such as Prozac) have led to an increase in the use of medication as a
treatment for even mild depression. Extreme cases of depression may require
hospitalization (as in the case of suicide attempts). Ongoing episodes
of severe depression may respond well to residential (inpatient) therapy
leading to the re-establishment of effective coping techniques, a return
to independent living, and full restoration of prior levels of functioning.
Effective treatment for depression is available. Contact your local mental
health provider for further information.
If your family member is out of control or suicidal (danger of harm
to self or others), stay calm and call 911. Do not try to handle it alone.
