The very nature of depression can prevent a person from seeking help
. Denial is one reason people with depression do not receive treatment. Others do not seek treatment because they do not believe that they can be helped. There is still a stigma in our society surrounding mental illness and insurance coverage is spotty and this will prevent others from seeking care. The good news is that depression is a treatable condition. With appropriate treatment patients can return to their normal level of functioning.
The most affective way to help a depressed person is to assist them to seek treatment. This might involve helping make an appointment and going to the appointment with a qualified health care or mental health professional. This might also involve giving emotional support and encouraging the patient to stick with prescribed treatment until the symptoms begin to abate. Antidepressants and psychotherapy are the mainstays of treatment. Mental health professionals to seek out for treatment are psychiatrists and psychologists. Psychiatric hospitalizations may be needed for severe symptoms and for suicidal ideations.
Depression is not just an emotional state but a medical condition that needs appropriate treatment. When your feelings move beyond a case of the Monday morning blues, it is time to seek appropriate care.