Some people who get depressed will also have times when they are elated and overactive. This form of depression, known as manic depression, tends to run in families. First you have to be aware that your friend or relative may be depressed. The time to get help is when any changes in behaviour, withdrawal or gloom have gone on for some weeks. Then you should seek professional help.
Most family doctors are quite used to dealing with emotional problems.
But very few family doctors will have had training in how to recognise depression in people with learning disabilities. So don't forget that you are the expert when it comes to telling the doctor about the changes you have noticed in the person you are worried about. You may have to explain that the depression is not part of the condition which caused the learning disability, but is something new and different. The doctor will probably appreciate your being present to help explain what has been happening. It may be necessary for a psychiatrist who has special training in working with people with learning disability to be consulted.