Urge people to seek help

People with depression may not know or admit that they're depressed. They may not be aware of the symptoms of depression, so they may think their feelings are normal.

People often feel ashamed about their depression, mistakenly believing they should be able to overcome it with willpower alone. But depression seldom gets better without treatment and may get worse. With the right treatment, it can get better.

Here's what you can do to help:

• Talk to the person about what you've seen and why you're worried about it.
• Explain that depression is a health condition — not a personal flaw or weakness — and it usually gets better with treatment.
• Suggest seeking help from a professional. A health care provider is a good place to start. You also could see a mental health provider, such as a licensed counselor or psychologist.
• Offer to help prepare a list of questions to discuss in the first appointment with a health care provider or mental health provider.
• Express your willingness to help by setting up appointments, going along to them and attending family therapy sessions.

If a person's depression is severe or potentially life-threatening, contact a health care provider, a mental health provider or emergency medical services.