My sister is mentally disturbed and often writing suicidal notes. What would be her problem?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concerns. First of all, I feel your sister is suffering from the same depression for which you got treated in the past. The possibility is very high as there was a similar problem in genetically related elder sister (I mean you) as the presence of family members with depression increases the risk of depression among other family members. I must acknowledge that you do not need to feel anything wrong as the genes are at fault and not the family.

Depression as a diagnosis is based on the fact that your sister have poor academic performance at a time when we expect better performance (board exams). In addition, the social isolation and preference to stay alone indicate depression as people with depression lose interest in almost all activities especially the pleasurable ones.

The presence of expressed wish to die is another thing which indicates the possibility of severe depression. In my opinion, it is urgent to seek help from a psychiatrist. You may argue that I am a psychiatrist and I must handle the case but the presence of suicidal ideas points toward need of urgent and personalized care and online help is not sufficient.

I hope this helps.