Are you depressed?

My Dad refused to acknowledge when he was depressed. He would stare out the window and say "I am not depressed". But after several of my friends and family have been diagnosed with depression, I have come to understand that he was right. 

Depression isn't just about seeing the glass being half empty or half full. It is not being able to see the contents of the glass. Depression is a word bandied around as if, like a senior moment, it can be dismissed at will. My Dad was down, tired, frustrated, discouraged due to his physical health. He suffered through cancer and multiple heart ailments. But he was not depressed. Quite the contrary. He fought his way back from the brink many times.

My mother in law has suffered from depression for many years. Being an incurable cheerleader, I mistakenly thought I could help her with a sunny disposition and attentive care. The weight of her depression began to affect me, as all she wanted was to die. After years of suffering she finally agreed to see her doctor. She will always be a glass half empty person, but her quality of life has definitely improved with the proper medication and monitoring.

People who suffer from true depression lack the ability to see the light at the end of the tunnel. They feel suffocated by its enveloping presence, and helpless to do anything more than standstill. The physical manifestations are loss of appetite, irregular sleep patterns, and a lack of interest in daily life. It is a serious concern and should be addressed with a physician. In some cases, medication can help. Even diet changes, better hydration, increased oxygen and addressing sleep apnea have been known to help ease symptoms.

An estimated 1 in 10 adults suffer from this mental illness. It affects the outcome of chronic conditions, such as arthritis and heart conditions, but more importantly, it affects a person's ability to live a full life. Who tends to be depressed? People between 45 - 64 years of age. Aging and the results of changing body images or marital status, health concerns, loss of job or family and friends can be a catalyst for clinical depression.

Do you know someone who is suffering from depression? How did you encourage them to get the help they needed?