By: Grace Torres 8-982-561

and Jessica Diaz

BY: Grace & Jessica

 Introduction

¡Hello!

welcome to our psychological office

Today we will talk about depression and
how it can affect our lives.
What is Depression?
Depression is a mental disorder
characterized primarily by a low
mood and feelings of sadness,
associated with alterations in
behavior, activity level and
thinking.

It is one of the most frequent

pathologies in Primary Care and is
the leading cause of psychiatric
care and disability derived from
mental problems.
What are the symptoms of depression?
The most common symptoms are:
Pathological sadness.
• Loss of interest.
• Decreased vitality.
• Exaggerated tiredness.

In addition, other symptoms may

appear, such as feelings of guilt or
incapacity, irritability, pessimism about
the future, ideas of death or suicide,
loss of confidence in oneself or in
others
How is depression diagnosed?

• Diagnostic interview.
• Rule out organic disease by:
diagnostic tests and assessment by
other specialists.
• Psychodiagnostic tests.
5 Tips on how you can help someone
with depression
Compassion
Compassion really is key in
helping someone to recover
from any illness. Whether it
is encouraging them to do
something that might help
them cope with their illness,
like seeking out appropriate
treatment, or offering to do
something they are
struggling with – even if it is
just washing up the dishes!
UNDERSTANDING
It is not always easy when dealing with
the negativity, hostility, and moodiness
that go hand in hand with depression,
but understand that they don’t
necessarily mean what they are
saying/doing in their current state of
mind.

Therefore, it’s important you don’t take

it personally or blame them; try
reassuring them instead. If they are
displaying unusual, impulsive
behaviours, try not to judge them but
do try your best to ensure their safety.
DON’T BECOME A PSYCHOLOGIST…
Dont diagnosing them or trying to give
advice beyond your knowledge – that is
best left to the professionals. Just listen
to them, believe everything they tell you
and let them know you’ll love and
support them every step of the way.

Don’t force treatment on them, but

remember to seek further help
immediately if they’re feeling suicidal or
showing no willingness to get better; if
you feel there is a risk of immediate
danger – tell a trusted adult or call 999.
HAVE PATIENCE
Recovering from depression can
take a long time and it is important
that everyone goes at their own
pace; this illness, for many, is an
ongoing battle throughout their
lifetime and they’ll have to gradually
learn how to manage, so be
prepared for relapses. It is important
to remember that even if they’ve
started treatment, it may be a long
time before they really start to feel
better. Therefore, having patience is
really important
SPEND TIME WITH THEM
Someone with depression will have
both good and bad days. They might
show less interest in the things they
used to enjoy, and might not always feel
like going out – but if they do feel up to
hanging out with you, then try and
spend time with them by doing things
you both used to enjoy. 
Keeping them occupied and offering
them distractions where you can is
really important, but make sure these
are either within, or close to their
comfort zone.
Conclution

Even though it is "normal" for people to

experience periodic changes in mood, one
must be attentive to indicators of
depression such as experiencing intense
and permanent sadness that interferes with
personal, social and work performance,
among others.