Depressed Loved One

February 20, 2013 Updated Feb 20, 2013 at 3:30 PM PDT

 

Scary statistics from the centers for disease control, suicides among teenagers continues to be on the rise. Overall, suicide is the 11th leading cause of death in the United States. Teen suicide was the third leading cause of death among young adults and adolescents 15 to 24 years of age following unintentional injuries and homicide. It's revealed that the number of attempted suicides among teens had increased from a little more than six-percent in 2,009 to nearly eight-percent in 20-11. Suicide of course brought on by depression. Doctor Bradley Wajda, with Esano Incorporated offer advice on what to look for.

 

* How can you first start to tell that your loved one whether it's a teenager or adult is majorly depressed?

When a loved one is depressed, for many people it is difficult to express their concern over a loved one's psychological health and safety. The most important first step is that you overcome your fear about beginning the conversation. 

* How should we approach the situation?

Avoid asking questions that sound like you don't really want to hear how they feel. We often ask questions in such a way as to encourage a "no" answer, e.g., "you're not depressed are you?" Ask questions that are non-judgmental, tell that person why you are concerned, or include the signs and symptoms that you believe represent their depression.

* How do you suggest to someone that they need to get treatment?

Point out that depression is a common illness and not a personal weakness or character flaw. The sooner your loved one seeks qualified treatment, the sooner they will feel better. Remember it is not your place to make a diagnosis.

* Can depression be cured?

Depression is a curable illness that rarely gets better if left untreated.

* What causes depression?

There are many medical causes of depression. They may feel the stigma of being seen as a mental patient. It is important to find a professional they connect with, treatment is completely confidential.

* Don't be afraid to ask the question "have you thought about suicide?"

You can't put the idea in their head, you are not that powerful. You are simply giving them permission to discuss this topic up to 15% of those with serious depression will end their lives by suicide, take any mention of suicide seriously and call 911 or the suicide prevention hotline at 1-800-273-8255. Fact:  3.7% of the adult U.S. population reported having suicidal thoughts in the past year.

 

Here are some signs:

Signs from the suicide prevention hotline that may mean someone is at risk for suicide:

-Talking about wanting to die or to kill themselves.

-Looking for a way to kill themselves, such as searching online or buying a gun

-Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live.

-Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain.

-Talking about being a burden to others.

-Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs.

-Acting anxious or agitated; behaving recklessly.

-Sleeping too little or too much.

-Withdrawing or isolating themselves.

-Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge.

-Displaying extreme mood swings (including happiness because they have decided on a way out of their emotional pain).be concerned about immediate safety and take steps to prevent a suicide attempt while seeking help. Remove all potential weapons and get rid of any alcohol, drugs, or medicines.

 

For more information, contact:

(559)999-9514

1312 W. Herndon Ave.

www.esanohealth.com