I’m a psychologist and here’s why spotting 2 of these signs in a loved one means you need to talk

OPENING up about the way we feel can be really hard.

Many people experience depression and it can manifest in different ways.

One psychologist explained that some depressed people can be in denial about their issues and the impact it has on those around them.

Dr Robert Welss said many might not even realise their behaviour has changed.

He said that even if they are aware, they could make excuses and be evasive in order to cover up the fact they are finding things difficult, and why.

“Often, they blame other people, especially those closest to them, for their ongoing bad mood,” he told .

This can make it hard to help them, but he said there are ways you can intervene.

To do this, he said you need to understand depression and the symptoms.

These include:

• Negative or hopeless outlook
• Losing interest in the things you enjoy
• Isolation
• Poor sleeping pattern
• Eating poorly
• Feelings of shame and/or guilt
• Talking about death or suicide
• Bursts of emotion such as anger or rage
• Blaming others for personal issues
• Feeling trapped
• Unexplained aches and pains
• Mood swings
• Drinking alcohol or using drugs more often
• Feeling like a burden.

Dr Welss added: “If you see more than one or two of these warning signs on a consistent basis, you need to initiate a conversation about depression.

“If you’re uncomfortable having this conversation one-on-one, speak with family and friends and ask them to assist.”

You should always call 999 in the UK if you think someone is in immediate danger and 911 in the US.

NHS talking therapies can help if you’re struggling to cope with feelings of anxiety or depression. 

Your GP can refer you or, in England, you can refer yourself online via .

If you need help for a mental health crisis, emergency or breakdown, NHS urgent mental health helplines offer 24-hour advice and support for people of all ages. 

It’s important though to understand that if a loved one is struggling, you also need to make sure you support your own wellbeing.

Whether you have a history of depression or anxiety, or not, it’s important to take care of your own mental health, especially if you want to be in a position to support those you love.

Not sure where to start?

Try these six healthy habits to support your mental wellbeing:

1. Do activities that give you purpose and meaning

This could be learning a new skill, taking on a challenge or helping someone else.

2. Spend time with people who make you feel positive

It’s important for your mental health to make the time to catch up regularly and re-establish relationships that may have drifted during lockdown and periods away from people.

3. Talk to people you trust when times get tough

Confiding in someone about an issue that’s bothering you can help you stay mentally healthy.

It isn’t a sign of emotional weakness – getting someone else’s perspective can help you see a situation in a new light.

4. Increase physical activity

Exercise doesn’t just benefit your physical health it also raises self-esteem and positively changes your mood.

5. Support others in bad times

Research suggests that helping a mate also creates positive feelings in ourselves and gives us feelings of purpose and self-worth.

6. Speak to a health professional when you need to

We all have times when our mood is low but if the feelings don’t pass and start to interfere with your life, it could be a sign it’s time to call in an expert.