By Having a depressed friend or loved one can be very devastating, especially when they start cutting the connection with you. Mostly, a depressed person will express symptoms like loss of interest in things they liked before, tearful and sad, easily irritable, feeling empty or guilty, caring less about things, lose interest in things like brushing teeth, showering, and such, more forgetful, and more. Dealing with the person can be a bit difficult since you never know how they will react to anything you do or say. However, you are not alone. Do you want to help the person and don’t know where to start? Here are the dos and don’ts when helping your loved one.
- Learn About Depression
The first step to helping your dear one get through depression is learning about the mental issue. You need to know how a depressed person behaves, their behavior change, and what you need to do. With this, you can understand what they are going through and the form of depression they are suffering from.
- Help Them with Therapy
Finding support is a very important thing. If your friend or loved one has been to the hospital, you can also introduce them to a mental health php for further help. Make sure you support them and encourage them not to skip therapy.
- Listen to Them
You need to let your dear one know that you are there for them. The best way to do that is by talking with them and listening when they talk. Ask questions and let them tell you how they feel. Remember, the person might want to let you know about what they feel but might not want to get advice from you. So, just listen and show them you understand.
- Be Patient
Patience is important when dealing with an individual going through depression. There are days both of you will not be on good terms. Try to understand and don’t give up on them. Your patience will only show them that you care.
- Keep In Touch
Being patient comes with keeping in touch. Even if you cannot be able to spend the whole day with them, at least make sure you check up on them regularly. A depressed person might withdraw. So, you might have to do a lot of work to keep in touch. Send them a text, call them or visit regularly.
- Don’t Take It Personally
Their depression is not your fault, neither theirs. So, avoid canceling your plans or lashing out when your friend bursts out with anger. Take a break if you feel emotionally drained, but don’t leave them alone.
- Don’t Compare Their Situation
If you have never been depressed before, don’t tell them you understand or you have been there too. Don’t talk about another person or how they dealt with their depression. Your loved one’s situation is unique, and comparing them does not help.
To Wrap It Up!
These are things you should do and don’t do when helping a loved one or a friend going through depression. This condition is more than just feeling sad. So, try to understand and help as much as you can.
