Depression will affect many of us during our lifetime, whether it be directly or indirectly. It can range from mild depression, which is usually triggered by a negative experience, to severe depression and bipolar disorder, both of which can have a huge impact on the live of the sufferer and those close to them. As bipolar is such a serious form of depression, and often misunderstood, I have covered this in a separate page in this blog.
According to aware, depression affects more than 1 in 10 people at any given time and can affect your thinking, feelings, energy levels and actions. Depression can be as a result of a traumatic experience in your life, or in some cases is caused by genetic factors. Given the wide number of people affected with depression, it is hardly surprising that there are literally thousands of websites with information on this mental health disorder. The following are 3 Irish websites aimed at tacking depression, which I found particularly useful, user friendly and practical:
Aware is a voluntary organisation, aimed at assisting those suffering with depression, by providing support and understanding and removing the stigma surrounding depression. Their site provides information and support, and they operate a helpline for suffers and their families and friends (1890 303 302).
Lean On Me is a site promoting the importance of friends and family in making a difference to to people affected by depression.
letsomeoneknow is a HSE website aimed at promoting positive mental health in young people.
Symptoms and Effects of Depression
- Feeling sad, anxious or bored
- Low energy, feeling tired or fatigued
- Under- or over-sleeping, or waking frequently during the night
- Poor concentration, thinking slowed down, difficulties with decision-making and memory
- Loss of interest in hobbies, family or social life, personal appearance
- Low self-esteem and feelings of guilt
- Aches and pains with no physical basis
- Loss of interest in living, thinking about death, suicidal thoughts
- Worsening of existing medical conditions
- Problems with personal relationships, breakdown of family life
- Short temper, low tolerance for others
- Dependency on alcohol/drugs
Helping Someone with Depression
Helping a friend, family member or colleague with depression can be difficult, especially if they are scared or ashamed of how they are feeling. The following short video clip gives practical advice on helping someone with depression: How to Help
The following information booklets are also helpful if you think someone you know is depressed:
How to say "Lean on me" (leanonme)
A Better understanding of depression (Aware)
Learning to cope with depression (Aware)
Depression in the workplace (Aware)
Supporting a loved one through depression (Aware)
Depression in later life (Aware)