Depression can come on hard. If you are asking is my loved one struggling with depression, you might also have concerns regarding the cause. Substance abuse can lead to changes in behavior, and the result can be depression that is difficult to manage. At Serenity House Detox & Recovery in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, we work with individuals who are looking to take back their life from addiction. As depression sets in, motivation can be low. It is time to break the cycle and move forward with treatment when depression and other mental health needs manifest because of substance abuse.
Signs of Depression In a Loved One
Is my loved one struggling with depression is a tough question to ask yourself. When you are concerned about the mental health needs of a person close to you, it’s important to recognize the symptoms of depression that are visible. A person who is having a hard time with depression may:
- Isolate and not come to gatherings held by friends and family members
- Show little interest in taking care of their own needs
- Seem tired or out of touch all the time
- Complain of aches and pains that have no clear cause
- Struggle to make positive changes in their life
When you answer yes to the question, is my loved one struggling with depression, you can offer emotional support. It can feel lonely to be depressed, and your loved one may need someone to talk to about what is going on in their life. Sometimes the cause is a chemical imbalance, while the depression might be an indication that an addiction is present.
Is My Loved One Struggling With Depression?
Your loved one may not be able to talk about what is going on in their life. You can ask how someone is feeling, but it doesn’t mean you are going to get a straight answer. Some people don’t realize that they are depressed, while others try to hide their depression from other people. Visible symptoms of depression may include:
- A messy appearance or disheveled look
- Sleeping at all hours of the day and night
- Binge eating or not eating at all
- Difficulty staying focused on any activity
Not all symptoms of depression are obvious. Only a professional can accurately diagnose an individual who appears to be struggling with depression. While you can express your concern, it is important for a treatment provider to assess an individual you are worried about.
How to Support a Depressed Loved One
Supporting a person who is struggling with depression can be stressful. It’s hard to know what to say, and most of the time just being there is enough. You can let your loved one know that you are there as part of their support team. Encourage your loved one to seek professional help. Offer to locate services that are needed and to drive your loved one to an appointment. Know that the process may be difficult, and take care of your own needs too. While you can’t fix the depression, you can be there as a support person when needed. Let your loved one know that they are not alone, and you are there if they feel like going out, taking a walk, or simply talking. Be patient with yourself and your loved one, knowing that the process of overcoming depression isn’t easy.
Get Treatment Today For Substance Abuse
If addiction to substances is the cause of your depression, it’s time to get the help you need. Contact Serenity House Detox & Recovery Florida at 866.294.5306 and get the treatment you deserve to break free from the addiction that is controlling your life. Depression and addiction can be beaten when you find a treatment program that works.
