Depression is a prevalent mental illness that affects millions of people worldwide. The experience is profoundly debilitating and can incapacitate an individual from carrying out everyday activities. As a loved one, supporting a depressed person is a complicated and emotional journey.
Understanding Depression
Depression is described as more than just feeling sad or low. It involves constant feelings of sadness and hopelessness, along with an uncontrollable loss of interest in what pleases you. Depression will affect your sleep, disrupt you’re eating habits, reduce your energy, and make you feel worthless and guilty. Even simple tasks seem impossible when you are experiencing depression.
Its Impact on Daily Life
One of the most torrential problems is that depression severely affects daily life. The individual will find it challenging to socialize or maintain their good work at school or in the workplace. This creates a level of isolation and discouragement that makes it difficult for the individual to recover. The individual struggling with depression must find the need for help.
Why Support Matters
As a loved one, your support is essential in helping someone with depression. Remember, you’re not there to “fix” the person and get rid of their depression, but being present in a quiet way can make a big difference. Urge your loved one to seek help from a professional, such as counseling or medication. Be patient and understanding as they get well.
There is one helpful thing you can do, however: Listen. Allow them to express their fears and concerns without judgment. Tell them that what’s happened to them is real and that you will be there for them, no matter what. Offer practical help, such as help with daily activities or rides to the doctor, to relieve them of some of the problems.
Recognizing the Need for Self-Care
But you also have to take care of yourself. Dealing with depression in someone close is emotionally exhausting, and it’s important you look after yourself. Do self-care things — whatever that means for you, whether it’s physical exertion, meditation or hanging with friends to keep your mind in working order. Go to therapy or attend a support group for people who have loved ones with depression.
If you or a family member is struggling with depression, there is help. One such place is Arbor Wellness, a mental health practice that specializes in treating depression as well as other psychiatric disorders. They’re offering treatments, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), medication and other therapies, which we know work and help people get better.
Coping with a depressed loved one is emotionally and mentally challenging, but it can also be done with the right help and resources. By understanding depression dynamics, being proactive and caring for your own health, you can create the best environment possible to combat depression side effects. And keep in mind, even after the symptoms recede, continue doing what works – talk and listen as communication is the key to caring and supporting a partner dealing with depression.
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