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Depression Q&As

Published by Bupa's health information team, March 2009.

Answers to questions about depression

This section contains answers to common questions about this topic. Questions have been suggested by health professionals, website feedback and requests via email.

 

What can I do to help someone with depression?

If you know someone who has depression, it is important for you to be reassuring, to listen but not judge, and to be there to talk to. This will be invaluable to help and support them through depression.

Explanation

When someone is depressed they often feel helpless, hopeless and worthless. Being affectionate and spending time with the person will help them feel better about themselves.

People with depression often isolate themselves from others. They may stop seeing friends and relatives; encourage them to keep up contact with people and to talk about their feelings.

Help the person find solutions to their issues and encourage them to seek advice. Treatment from their GP can improve their symptoms and help them overcome depression.

Helping and supporting someone who is depressed can mean you form a closer bond with the person and your relationship with them is stronger because of it.

It can though be difficult if someone is down and you are spending a lot of time with them, you may start to feel depressed too. Have some time out as well, and talk to others if you feel frustrated. Support from specialist groups or your GP may also be helpful.

Further information

Sources

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Can yoga help depression?

Yoga may help depression. Exercise in general is thought to be particularly beneficial.

Explanation

There is little evidence proving yoga is effective but some research does outline that it may have some benefits. There are different types of yoga and some may be more helpful than others. Ashtanga yoga, for example, can be quite dynamic and fast paced, while other forms are more focused on meditation and breathing. You may choose to try different forms to see if they help you.

Regular exercise three times a week, for 45 minutes to an hour is thought to help your mood by increasing the levels of hormones called serotonin and noradrenaline in your body. These hormones can make you feel happier. Activities such as running or brisk walking, which increase your heart rate, may be good to try.

Outdoor exercise or ecotherapy may be particularly beneficial, so try going for a brisk walk in the country or doing some gardening.

Further information

Sources

  • Yoga for depression: the research evidence. Database of Abstracts of Reviews of Effects (DARE). Centre for Reviews and Dissemination. www.crd.york.ac.uk, accessed 12 August 2008
  • Depression: management of depression in primary and secondary care. National Institute of Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE), May 2007. www.nice.org.uk
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Does acupuncture work for depression?

There is no medical evidence proving that acupuncture does or doesn't work.

Explanation

Looking after yourself, taking time out and doing things that make you feel good may help. This includes acupuncture. Other activities which may help include massage, homeopathy, music therapy and meditation. Eating a balanced diet, and particularly oily fish, may alleviate depression.

Further information

Sources

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Related topics

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This information was published by Bupa's health information team and is based on reputable sources of medical evidence. The content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.

Publication date: March 2009

 

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