Simmi Waraich
Why does depression happen? Should I ask a person who I am worried is depressed if they have suicidal thoughts?
Sheena Sharma, Mohali.
Depression is a neurological disease with structural changes in certain areas of the brain along with altered activity and blood flow. At times it maybe triggered by certain life events but often it is not linked to any event but may start for no apparent reason just like a person can get diabetes etc. If you are worried about someone yes you can tell them that you are there for them to talk to, no matter what. You can ask if they have thoughts of dying and if the answer is yes one can ask if they have thought of a suicidal plan. Asking can help a person to express and may help them feel a sense of relief. Discuss help available, in case of suicidal thoughts or a plan, do disclose to close family members or some responsible person and take action.
My son has been using alcohol heavily. Earlier, he used cannabis but since I started weekly urine tests he has stopped that. He is intelligent and agrees that it is causing problems. He has poor coping skills to deal with stress and often resorts to alcohol. What can help? Manjit Singh, Ludhiana
Forming a rapport and then regular sessions of motivational interviewing are helpful. This involves not forcing things on the person but helping them to see how it is impacting their life and goals and how to work towards change so that the risky drinking is cut down. Often parents also need counselling. Parents who are clear, consistent, firm but not harsh or critical will usually be able to deal with the problem more effectively.
(Waraich is a Chandigarh-based psychiatrist)
from The Tribune http://bit.ly/2uNeUzy
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