Hello, I recently came out of what was close to four years in the depths of depression. Today however I do not write about myself but a male friend of 40 who is currently in hospital trying to deal with this unnecessary evil calld depression. But I think he carries a different type of depression than I have ever read about. His eyes were distant, his demeanor slow and his responses were quiet and not full of the leadership qualities that he had previously displayed to me. I am very worried and am wanting to help him in the way that he has helped me. I am who I am today because of the guidance he has showed me and must return the favour. However when I went to visit him he was not the same man that I knew. He was vague, and his eyes just seemed so distant. He said at one point, some teacher hey. But I was very understanding in my response. My question is Does an individual who has been diagnosed with schizophrenia experience a different level of depression than others do and should it be approached differently to those who are not diagnosed with schizophrenia? I was absolutely stunned by the change in his character and am just wanting to know how I can help in his journey towards good health. The doctors are in the process of doubling the dosage of his anti depressant so have faith that his spirit will soon be lifted. My depression although long was never like I saw in him. Is it because of his schizophrenia? How do I help him in the way he has helped me? Thank you for your time.
Thank you for your question.
It is obviously impossible to comment on a single patient as illness and treatment can be so varied. In general terms depression shows up in many ways and can result in people appearing to be quite unlike their normal selves when in a bout of depression. Depression can occur on its own, and in association with anxiety, phobias, obsessionality and dementia as well as with other illnesses like schizophrenia. In each case the assessment and treatment may vary depending on the person’s illness at their time and response to treatment.
Regardless of any specific medical treatment, you can always be a supportive friend. That is almost always a great comfort and support as you have realised. Sometimes when depressed people can go through phases when they don’t want contact with others. Ask your friend what he wants. Sometimes, if the patient gives permission, it is possible to talk with the patient’s doctor in case there are other ways to understand the process of recovery and ways to help.
All the very best.