It can be tough to help someone who suffers from depression, but your support can play an important role. Here is some information about how to help:
Affirm their Experience
Listen and remind the depressed individual that what is being shared is real. Allow their feelings and thoughts to be known. Validate their emotions and remind them that there’s nothing wrong with however they’re feeling.
Inform Yourself
Educate yourself about depression, that way you can understand what they are experiencing. That can help you be a more empathetic support.
Recommend Professional Help
If they’re open to it, make the recommendation that they get some assistance from a mental health professional. If they welcome the support, offer to help them find a therapist or go with them to their first appointment.
Be There
Give them time and attention, even if you’re just sitting as a company or doing low-key activities. Your presence can be comforting.
Check in Regularly
Check in regularly via text or phone to let her know you care. Or even a simple, “Thinking of you,” will brighten their day.
Encourage Good Habits
Politely encourage good routine practices like taking walks, eating healthy and getting enough sleep but steer away from being pushy.
Be Patient
It takes time to feel better and there is no quick and easy fix. Be patient and don’t sound or act frustrated if they’re not getting better quickly.
Give Them Space
It’s important to be there, but it’s equally important to respect their need for space. Let them dictate the interaction.
Assistance with Daily Tasks
Individuals with depression may find it difficult to maintain everyday activities. Assisting with groceries or chores or offering to help cook can also help alleviate some stress.
Don’t fall into clichés
Avoid things like “Just think positive,” “Snap out of it.” These are things that may invalidate their feelings.
It’s important to remember that everyone’s experience with depression is different, so adapt this to what feels right for the person you are trying to support. During this time your empathy which you show is most likely greatly appreciated for their pain.
If you or someone you love is weighed down by the overwhelming burden of depression, please know you are not alone. It’s so vital to not be afraid to reach out and ask for help when it’s necessary. Arbor Wellness is there, we are here to hear you out and guide you all the way. We can heal and the best is yet to come! You’re allowed to feel this way and you deserve to receive love and compassion, which can offer you stability in this time of hardship. Please don’t hesitate to contact us at 702-830-9588; we’re here to assist you along the way.
Sources:
https://www.psychiatry.org/patients-families/depression/what-is-depression
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/depression/art-20045943
https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-help-a-depressed-friend
https://odphp.health.gov/myhealthfinder/healthy-living/mental-health-and-relationships/depression-conversation-starters
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/depression-and-sleep-understanding-the-connection
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression
https://www.ifpa-fitness.com/blog/the-vital-role-of-personal-space-for-health-and-fitness
https://www.helpguide.org/mental-health/depression/coping-with-depression
https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/publications/depression
https://time.com/7291435/worst-thing-to-say-depression-depressed/