In England, one in six people report experiencing a common mental health problem (including depression) in any given week according to an NHS study. However, it can be difficult to understand depression if you've never experienced it. If you are the person experiencing depression you might find it hard to express how you feel.
We have found some great quotes which might help you to explain how you feel. It's important to recognise that depression is not just feeling sad. It's something which can have an impact on your whole life. If you have depression, maybe you could devise your own quote.
Elizabeth Wurtzel, Author
J.K. Rowling, Author
Stephen Fry, Actor and Author
Psycom
Psycom
paintedteacup.com
Jasmine Warga, Author
Stephanie Perkins, Author
Huffington Post
Huffington Post
Why is understanding important?
Understanding what is going on in the head of someone who is depressed can help you to understand how you might be able to help them.
If someone is experiencing depression, they might find it difficult to answer questions or make decisions, so be gentle and don't bombard them with questions.
Understand that sometimes depression just occurs - maybe through a chemical imbalance or reduced resilience. Don't think that is is always linked to an event or that just because the person appears to have a great life they shouldn't be depressed. Depression isn't always a reaction to bad things that happen.
What else can I do?
If you think a loved one is experiencing depression it can be difficult to talk about. They might not even realise what's going on for them. You could start by saying you've noticed a difference in them. Perhaps give some examples of when they have been stressed. Or if they have been short tempered.
If you say it in a way that is non-judgemental and curious then they might open up to you. And don't worry if they say there is nothing wrong. You've shown them you care. And they may realise they have a problem when they starting thinking about it.
If you feel you need support, find out what services we can offer you here.
