I now understand that there is a connection between hormones and depression and that a decline in

hormones can result in a lower serotonin level, which can cause an increase in depressive, anxious, and
irritable symptoms. I can now understand how depression normally presents in other people. Helping
someone who is depressed, however, might be difficult. Every time I come across a depressed person, I
sometimes feel helpless and uncertain of what to do. One of the things I can do to support a depressed
and suicidal friend of mine is to understand their situation and be willingly available to them at all times
as a listener or someone to talk to because people who are depressed may not admit they are
depressed, may not be aware of the signs, and may believe that their behavior is normal. Many
incorrectly assume they should be able to cure their depression with effort alone because they feel
humiliated about it all too often. But without treatment, depression rarely gets better and sometimes
gets worse. The person you care about may improve with the appropriate course of treatment.
Consequently, talking to them about what I’ve noticed and why I am concerned can be a helpful way. I
can then go on to explain to them that depression is a medical condition and that treatment usually
makes it better. I'll also advise them to get professional help. Although persons with depression may
judge themselves severely and find fault with everything they do, it can be quite helpful to them if you
provide them positive praise. Tell them how much I and others value them and all the good things they
do. Treatment for depression does help with symptoms, but it can take time. Trying several different
medications or therapy modalities may be necessary to find the most effective one. After beginning
medication, symptoms may immediately get better for some people. Some will need more time.