How to Help Someone Who is Depressed

If someone you care about is currently struggling with depression, it can be difficult to know how to help them, especially if you’ve never experienced mental health issues personally. There is no quick-fix for depression and recovery can be a long road, but it is absolutely treatable. The key is finding the right combination of treatments for them and providing them with a continued source of support and understanding. Of course, it is much easier said than done in many cases, but here are some of the most important ways that you can help a loved one who is depressed in their journey to recovery.

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Learn More About Depression

The internet is a fantastic resource for both medical information about depression as well as personal experiences from others who have struggled with it. Try and learn as much as you can about depression as well as the stigmas and misconceptions about the mental illness. There are also some handy guides about language to avoid when talking to someone about their mental health.

Listen to Them

The most important thing you can do for someone with depression is to listen when they talk about their emotions. They need to understand that you are there for them and that you care, so you may want to share some of the things you’ve learnt about depression in general but always ask how you can help them as an individual, as no two people with depression are the same. Make sure they know that they are not weak for needing help.

Acknowledge Your Own Emotions

It’s natural to feel frustrated, scared or even angry when someone you care about is in turmoil so don’t feel guilty about your own emotions. You may find it helpful to talk to a close friend or even a professional counsellor who can help you process your feelings in a safe environment where you’re not placing more stress on the person already struggling with depression.

Help Them Find the Right Treatment

There is a range of medications and types of therapy available to people suffering from depression. Help them to seek a professional diagnosis so that they can access the treatment they need for their particular situation. For example, teenagers may be best suited to a mental health treatment program specially designed for young people such as ignitetreatment.com.

Don’t Place Blame or Judgment

Depressed people are not lazy or self-indulgent, and their behaviour is not necessarily who they really are. They may avoid social situations or become withdrawn and irritable or display other symptoms of depression. They may lash out in frustration at their condition, but it’s crucial that you don’t take it personally. Support them if they find everyday tasks difficult but remember to help them retain their independence too.

Take Care of Yourself

Helping a depressed person can have a real impact on your own mental health so don’t forget to take time out to care for yourself now and then. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep, exercising and eating well to keep your own physical and mental wellbeing as healthy as possible. This will make you far more effective support for them in the long run.  

This is a collaborative post.