The essential first step is to realize that there is a problem and to help the person get to a doctor. Once medication is started, it must be continued long enough to ensure recovery. Depression is not always obvious, even to the trained observer. All people experience moods that fluctuate from elation to sadness, from feeling relaxed to being worried. These moods are part of the human condition.
Depression is worse than feeling blue.
Depression causes persistent sadness that lasts day after day. A person loses interest in the activities of life and withdraws. Hobbies such as reading, listening to music, visiting with friends or going for a drive, lose their appeal and no longer provide any pleasure. When a depressed person can be persuaded to talk about feelings, one hears of sadness, tiredness and lack of energy. Sleep patterns may change and the individual will describe nights spent staring at the ceiling, unable to fall asleep or otherwise going to sleep easily enough but waking up after only a few hours.