DEPRESSION
Depression is not the same as being in a state of low motivation or melancholy; it is something deeper that, in addition, is accompanied by symptoms in other organs and body systems.
Anyone can experience a depressive crisis during his or her life. This does not mean that the person is a mental patient, and in most cases he will not require hospitalisation.
The appearance of depression could originate from an incident such as the death of a loved one, a divorce, the prolonged absence from home, work stress, an increase in responsibilities, loneliness, illness, etc. On other occasions there may not be a recognisable cause.
A depressed subject shows the following symptoms:
Norms of action when dealing with depressed subjectsThe aim of the relationship with the depressed subject is to make them feel we understand their negative feelings and give them the hope that they will disappear. Communication with them should be clear, "putting yourself in their situation" and offering help. The depressed subject should feel relieved when we show that we understand their problem and they realise that they are going to receive help: "I UNDERSTAND WHAT YOU ARE GOING THROUGH", "WE ARE GOING TO HELP YOU".
You should never say to them: "cheer up, everything's alright", or "oh come on, cheer yourself up". You should understand that they do not want to be sad, but the feeling of sadness over comes them without them being able to do anything about it.
When the symptoms of depression become worrying, or if the subject concerned asks for it, you should ask for MEDICAL ADVICE VIA RADIO and, always when you suspect from their attitude or Anterior history that the possibility of suicidal thoughts exists (see SUICIDAL PERSONALITY).