I think my mum has depression! What do I do?

[hng]

Recently my whole family has noticed that my mum has been going through periods of extreme sadness where she refuses to speak to people and locks herself in rooms. We are all extremely concerned and my dad has asked her to seek counselling and treatment but she refuses. What do I do? Her mother was also suspected to have depression (we never found out for sure as she passed away when my mum was only a child). Please help!

[kanga_brumby]

Best thing is keep letting her know you support her. Also be gentle in advising her to seeking help

[pipsy]

Hi hng. Welcome to the forums. Have you any thoughts as to what has caused this sadness? Until your mum is ready to open up, there is little you can do. I would keep a close eye on her, note when she suddenly wants to disappear. Perhaps you or dad could talk to your Dr ask him/her for some advice on how best to let your mum know you're there for her. I agree, it is a worry when people suffering depression can't or won't open up. Is mum on AD's, perhaps she is reacting to them. Sometimes if people are new to AD's they can react rather negatively.

Lynda.