When loved ones suspect that a friend or relative has depression it can be important to offer encouragement to seek help by arranging an appointment with a GP or finding another source of support.

Depression and anxiety are daunting experiences for the person suffering and may not always be a consisting experience. Feeling positive one day and down the next, confused with mixed emotions.

Anxiety which affects daily life through constant worry and fear can become very draining, preventing the person to enjoy events and creativity in their life.

There are many signs that someone can be depressed such as:

• Feeling tired
• Overeating or loss of appetite
• Trouble concentrating such as watching TV or reading.
• Feeling down or hopeless
• Sleeping more than usual or not able to sleep
• Slower speech and movements or fidgety and restless than usual

General anxiety disorder:

• Constantly feeling on edge
• A sense of dread
• Lack of concentration
• Restlessness
• Irritability

Physical Symptoms

• Stomach ache
• Feeling sick
• Struggling to fall asleep
• Dry mouth
• Muscle aches and tension
• Trembling or shaking

Support from friends and family can help by just being there or sending a little gesture to let them know you are thinking of them.

Help with small tasks which may seem huge to the person suffering such as opening mail, cleaning the kitchen, cooking a meal and helping them to self care.