Depression, frequently mentioned in casual talks, is much more than a brief spell of unhappiness or a response to a small misfortune. It represents a tempest of deep-seated sorrow that can pervade every corner of an individual’s existence.
Depression is a profound mental health ailment, and according to the World Health Organization, it affects roughly 5% of adults worldwide. When a person is engulfed in depression’s currents, the aid of cherished ones acts as a guiding light. It’s not merely about lifting their spirits; it’s a matter of possibly preserving lives.
What is Depression
Depression is like an iceberg. Most of it stays hidden. The visible part doesn’t show its true depth. Clinically, it has many symptoms. They last over two weeks. Symptoms include sadness, lost interest in fun activities, different eating habits, and focus issues.
Imagine waking up and feeling very heavy. Watching a sunrise doesn’t spark joy. Even among family, you might feel all alone.
What are Common Symptoms
- Depression: Deep sadness lasting over two weeks.
- Iceberg Effect: Most feelings stay hidden, just like an iceberg’s bulk underwater.
- Lost Interest: Not enjoying once-loved activities.
- Eating Habits: Either eating too much or too little.
- Focus Issues: Difficulty in concentrating.
- Heavy Feeling: Waking up feels like carrying a huge weight.
- Emptiness: A beautiful sunrise might bring no joy.
- Isolation: Feeling alone, even when surrounded by loved ones.
Always Be with him/her
- Imagine: Put yourself in their place. Think of a mind full of negative thoughts.
- Presence Over Advice: They don’t need advice or judgment. They need you.
- Simple Activities: Offer to grab coffee or take a park walk with them.
- Silence Can Help: Sometimes, it’s best to just sit quietly with them.
- Safe Space: Make them feel free from judgment. Let them be real and honest.
Active Listening Matters
- Art of Listening: It’s more than hearing words. It’s feeling the emotions.
- Venting, Not Solutions: They might just need to let out their feelings.
- Be Patient: Don’t interrupt. Just listen.
- Offer Comfort: A shoulder to cry on can be powerful. Words aren’t always necessary.
Promote Expert Help
- Think Physical Pain: If someone had constant body pain, you’d say “see a doctor.” The mind is the same.
- Action Step: Help them find a therapist or psychiatrist.
- Research: Look up local mental health experts. Ask a family doctor for suggestions.
- Offer Rides: Drive them to their appointments.
- Check-In: Ask how they felt after sessions.
- Be Their Anchor: Your steady support can be their foundation during tough times
Educate Yourself
To genuinely help someone with depression, it’s crucial to grasp their struggle. Dive into books, documentaries, and articles focused on depression. Tune into podcasts and view informative videos.
Depression has multiple treatment paths, each designed for personal needs and circumstances. It doesn’t have a single solution. Common methods include antidepressant drugs, psychotherapy, and shifts in daily habits. Also, consider other options like art therapy, therapy with animals, or practicing mindfulness.
Keep Patient
Know that your loved one will experience ups and downs. Their treatment might have moments of progress and setbacks. Be consistently patient with them, understanding that recovery isn’t a straight path.
You’ve probably heard, ‘Time heals all wounds.’ But telling someone with depression to ‘snap out of it’ is like expecting a fracture to heal instantly. This approach isn’t just unrealistic; it can harm their well-being. Support their journey without imposing deadlines or urging them to ‘move on.’
Assist Them in Keeping a Routine
Sleep and nutrition are essential to us, just as sunlight and water are for plants. Urge your loved one to get consistent sleep and consume healthy food. Get innovative—maybe prepare a dish together or have a nightly goodnight call. Pursuing hobbies can be healing for those with depression. Motivate them to engage in activities like painting, writing, or gardening. If they’re unsure, join them in these pastimes. These minor actions can reignite life’s spark amidst depression’s darkness.
Button Line
Supporting a loved one with depression is a journey, not a quick race. Every kind word, silent moment, and empathetic hug creates connections over the deep pits of sadness.
When you educate yourself, show patience, assist with their routine, and accompany them in seeking expert care, you act as a beacon leading
