Do you know how easily people can get depressed, especially in tough times like these?
According to research, in England, 13% of men and 24% of women are diagnosed with depression in their lifetime. While the phenomenon is not too rare, it still helps to know that someone is there for you. Here’s how to be of help when your loved one faces depression.
Communicate
You may be hesitant to start a conversation with a loved one going through depression, not because you don’t care but because you may be scared something may go wrong. And that’s understandable. However, let go of your hesitations and keep in mind that the conversation should focus more on listening and supporting than giving advice and fixing the situation. Most of the time, getting your loved ones to talk about how they feel without judging them can go a long way to help them.
You could start by letting them know you noticed some changes in them which concern youand you’d like to know how they are doing. You can then go on ahead to ask when they started feeling that way and if there is anything you can do to help out. Be sure to communicate how much they mean to you and that you will always be there for them.
Tell them how much you care and remind them that everything will be alright and that they shouldn’t give up. Here are a few things to avoid saying; “it is all in your head,” “just snap out of it,” “you should be feeling better by now,” etc. Such statements invalidate their feelings and may push them to withdraw completely.
Know that there is a risk of suicide
It may be hard to imagine your loved one considering something as extreme as suicide but bear in mind that depression clouds judgment and distorts thinking. Acknowledging the risk and putting yourself on the lookout for any warning signs may help you save their life. Some warning signs include talking about death and harming themselves, expressing feelings of self-hate and acting in self-destructive ways, getting things in order, and saying goodbye.
You may also notice them seeking out pills, weapons, or other lethal objects and a sudden sense of calm after depression. Upon seeing any of these signs, talk to them openly and contact an emergency services number to seek help. Also, remember not to leave them alone.
Encourage seeking help and support their treatment process
Your loved one may resist getting help because depression puts them in a mental state where they believe the situation is hopeless. The mere idea of finding a doctor and making an appointment may seem like a lot for them because depression strips them of all motivation. Whatever the situation may be, try to encourage them to get help and make it easier for them by offering your assistance. You can help by finding a doctor and even attending their first visit with them. You can also help them make a detailed list of symptoms and ailments you both noticed to discuss with the doctor.
Once treatment begins, try to provide your unconditional love and support while being very patient and compassionate. It may not be easy to do in the face of daily negativity, hostility, and moodiness but don’t give up. Provide whatever assistance they may need and will be willing to accept. Your aid could mean helping them stay on schedule with any prescribed treatment and researching more treatment options. Encourage them to lead a healthier lifestyle by doing so yourself; let them see you eat better, exercise, have a positive outlook on life, and enjoy life. You can also buy them fun and effective gifts like CBD gummies.
Take care of yourself
To fully support and assist your depressed loved one, you would need to be healthy and happy. To ensure this, do not succumb to the pressure put on you by the depressed individual by making sure you set boundaries. Gently communicate your feelings to them when they upset you. It will help you to avoid having pent up emotions. Also, stay on track with your life for your mental wellbeing; try not to put your entire life on hold as the sudden change can harm you.
