What is Depression?
Depression is when feelings of sadness, loss, anger, or frustration interfere with work, school or family responsibilities for an extended period of time.
Symptoms of Depression can include:
- Trouble sleeping or sleeping too much
- A dramatic change in appetite (with weight loss or gain)
- Lack of energy
- Feelings of worthlessness, self-hate, and inappropriate guilt
- Extreme difficulty concentrating
- Restlessness and irritability
- Inactivity and withdrawal from usual activities
- Feelings of hopelessness and helplessness
- Passing or recurring thoughts of death or suicide
How do I know if a service member is a danger to themselves or others?
If you are in doubt, it is always best to have a professional evaluate the person. You may save a life by getting a trained evaluation by a nurse, a physician, a clergy member, a social worker, a counselor or a crisis worker. Be alert for statements or behaviors such as:
- There is no point in living
- I can't live with myself
- I want to make people pay for what happened
- I do not have a future
- I may not be around much longer
- My life has no meaning
- Active suicidal ideas with intent and plan, such as giving away significant personal belongings, saying goodbye, gathering the means (e.g., gun, pills), or writing a suicide note
If you believe a service member you know may be a danger to themselves or others:
It is very important that he or she gets professional help immediately. Even if the service member is resistant to such support, it is very important that immediate contact be made with a professional who can provide a thorough evaluation of the degree of risk, even if it means the service member becomes angry with you. While you may incur their anger initially, you may also save a life.
If you are having feelings of suicide, think you are a possible threat to yourself or worried about a loved one, call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline immediately for crisis intervention. The number is 1-800-273-TALK (8255) then Press “1”
- Additional Resources:
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www.healthline.com
Click on this link for a complete description of Depression including symptoms, types and forms of Depression as presented by Healthline. -
www.nimh.nih.gov
The National Institute of Mental Health presents a comprehensive guide to depression including forms, signs and symptoms, causes, particular information for women and children, and where to get help.