Warning signs

The symptoms of depression can vary from person to person, and they can also depend on the person's age, sex and personality type. For example, women may find it easier to cry than men, and they may also talk about their feelings more often than men. Men, on the other hand, often keep their feelings to themselves and instead may have sudden bursts of irritability and aggression.

A person suffering from depression will often try to hide their depression from their family and friends so as not to worry them or be a burden to them. In addition they may also be in denial about having depression.

Some of the things to watch out for are:

• Listlessness
• Tendency to become overly contemplative about life
• Withdrawal from social situations and leisure activities
• Sudden lack of initiative
• Complaints about problems with sleep
• Lack of enthusiasm for daily life
• Increased tiredness and lack of energy
• Tendency to talk negatively "What is the point of it all?"
• Anxiety
• Reduced self-esteem and self-confidence
• Withdrawal from relationships, indifference towards loved ones

Ask cautiously

If you suspect that the person may be suffering from depression, and if the situation was appropriate, you could cautiously broach the subject with questions like: "Are you feeling depressed?" or "Are you having negative thoughts?” You may get an honest answer. The person will be unlikely to bring up the subject themselves for fear of being judged or condemned. If you are able to open the lines of communication and allow them to admit they may be depressed, you are likely to have the opportunity to support them further and suggest that they seek help from a medical professional.

Guilt and shame
Feelings of guilt and shame are prominent symptoms of depression. A depressed person is likely to assume guilt for things they may have little or nothing to do with. They draw in all their own misery and that of others, and then view themselves as the cause of that misery. These feelings of guilt are often a driving force in the progression of suicidal thoughts.