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Depression: Helping Someone Get Treatment
Your loved one or friend doesn't seem the same. You thought it was the blues, but it's been going on for weeks. And it seems much worse than that.
Is your friend grieving over something? Or could it be depression?
If you want to learn more about grieving, see the topic Grief and Grieving. But if you think someone close to you is depressed, urge him or her to see a doctor.
This topic will give you the tools to do so.
Key points
- Depression is a disease. It's not being lazy, and you can't "just get over it."
- Depression is very common and is nothing to be embarrassed about.
- The best thing you can do for someone who has depression is to help him or her get treatment.
- Don't ignore talk about suicide.
Talk to a doctor, or call
or emergency help if needed. - Treatment works, and there are many choices in treatment. Many types of health practitioners can treat depression.
- Depression can be caused by another medical problem. Treating the problem may stop the depression.
What is depression?
Why is it important to see a professional about signs of depression?
How can you help?
Where to go from here
Return to topic:
| By: | Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: January 12, 2011 |
| Medical Review: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Lisa S. Weinstock, MD - Psychiatry | |
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
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