Do they complain of...
Loss of energy and drive - so they seem "slowed down"?
Trouble falling asleep, staying asleep, or getting up?
Appetite problems, are they losing or gaining weight?
Headaches, stomach aches, or backaches?
Chronic aches and pains in joints and muscles?
Has their behavior changed suddenly so that...
They are restless or more irritable?
They want to be alone most of the time?
They've started cutting classes or dropped hobbies and
activities?
You think they may be drinking heavily or taking drugs?
Have they talked about...
Death
Suicide - or have they attempted suicide?
4. FIND SOMEONE WHO CAN HELP.
If you checked several of the boxes, a friend may need help.
Don't assume that someone else is taking care of the
problem. Negative thinking, inappropriate behavior, or
physical changes need to be reversed as quickly as possible.
Not only does treatment lessen the severity of depression,
treatment also may reduce the length of time (duration) your
friend is depressed and may prevent additional bouts of
depression.
If a friend shows many symptoms of depression, you can
listen and encourage him or her to ask a parent or teacher
about treatment. If your friend doesn't seek help quickly,
talk to an adult you trust and respect - especially if your
friend mentions death or suicide.
There are many places in the community where people with
depressive disorders can be diagnosed and treated. Help is
available from a family doctor, mental health specialists in
community mental health centers or private clinics, and from
other health professionals.
MORE INFORMATION IS AVAILABLE.
If you want more information about depression, its symptoms,
and ways to get treatment, write:
DEPRESSION/Awareness, Recognition, and Treatment (D/ART)
National Institute of Mental Health
Public Inquiries, Room c-05
5600 Fishers Lane
Rockville, MD 20857
Source: U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services Public Health
Service Alcohol, Drug Abuse, and Mental Health
Administration NIH Publication No. 94-3824
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