Look for warning signs of worsening depression

People may experience depression in different ways. Learn how depression affects a person by watching them. Learn what to do when it gets worse.

Consider these issues:

• What are the typical signs of depression?
• What behaviors or language do you see when depression is worse?
• What behaviors or language do you see when this person is doing well?
• What triggers bouts of more severe depression?
• What activities help most when depression worsens?

Worsening depression needs to be treated as soon as possible. Urge a person with depression to work with a health care provider or mental health provider to create a plan for what to do when symptoms reach a certain point, including whom to contact. In some cases, the provider may need to adjust or change medicines or recommend additional treatments.