10 Ways to Help a Loved One with Depression
Helping a loved one with depression can be a challenging task. If you’re not really sure how you can help someone you love who is struggling with depression, these ten tips will definitely help you.
Table of Contents
Do Research
One of the first things you could do to help a loved one with depression is to learn as much as possible about their condition. It is important to get informed about depression symptoms and how to recognize them. Depression is not going to manifest the same way for all people, which is why doing thorough research is crucial. It is a serious illness like any other and should be approached as such. Also, keep in mind that no matter how well-informed you are, you will never fully comprehend and understand how the person who is dealing with depression is feeling.
Just Listen
Depression tends to make people isolate and withdraw. That is why listening and providing emotional support matters a lot to those who are dealing with depression. You need to learn how to be a better listener. Be mindful of their feelings and needs. Try to step inside your loved one’s shoes and show compassion. The one thing you should never do is try to “fix” someone who is dealing with depression by telling them how to feel or what to do. Just be there for them when they need someone to talk to.
Help Find a Therapist
People who are struggling with depression symptoms can find it pretty difficult to make that first move towards the healing process. It can be very challenging for them to pick up the phone and make the first appointment. You can help them by researching therapists. Offer your help and make the first appointment for them. It is also very important to find the right therapist. If your loved one doesn’t feel comfortable with the first therapist you chose, keep looking. So many professionals can help treat depression such as social workers, psychologists, and psychiatrists.
Be Positive
Your involvement, no matter how insignificant it may seem, can make a huge difference. It is very important to be positive and keep an encouraging attitude. It is never a good option to plead or scold someone who is struggling with depression. The only thing your loved one needs is for you to be there. You might always feel like there is something more you could do or say that will immensely change your loved one’s mood. However, there is not much you can do. You have to trust your therapist to do their job as best as they can and your ‘job’ is to simply be a positive presence in your loved one’s life.
Offer Distractions
Another way you can help your loved one deal with depression is by keeping them occupied with fun activities. Being around people is generally very beneficial for those who struggle with depression. However, keep in mind that it’s going to be challenging. Trying to get someone with depression to be active definitely isn’t one of the easiest tasks out there. But don’t give up. Try to take baby steps at first. If you could just get your loved one to move to another room, or sit on the terrace with you drinking coffee, it might eventually lead to other activities as well.
Help With Daily Chores
Everyday chores and responsibilities can put a lot of stress on those who struggle with depression. Helping them cook or clean their house from time to time can make a huge difference for them. It won’t take you much time or effort, but it will mean a lot to them. Or if you could possibly even offer to babysit or arrange childcare so that your loved one can go out and enjoy some other activities, that’s even better.
Small acts of kindness matter
Putting a smile on your loved one’s face, even if just temporarily, can really help them with their depression. Don’t underestimate the power of small acts of kindness. Try to surprise your loved one with something they like from time to time. You can either surprise them with their favourite candies, go to the movies together, or you can buy them flowers. You can get the same day flower delivery services that will make sure your loved one’s favourite flowers will get delivered straight to their home with care.
Point Out Improvements
It is very common for people who struggle with depression to abruptly stop their medication because they feel like the medication is not working for them anymore. Helping them see the positive results and improvements made by therapy is crucial for helping your loved ones with depression. Noticing and pointing out these improvements will show your loved one that treatments are having an effect. It will push them to keep going. For instance, point out how clean the house is or how your loved one has been more active lately, etc.
Help Keep Track of Treatment
Taking medications is just one part of the healing process. It is also very important to keep up with therapy appointments because it can make a significant improvement in depression. People tend to avoid going to therapy because they find it expensive. Help your loved one by offering help and emphasising the importance of therapy sessions. Point out how helpful it will be for them and their depression symptoms.
Check-In Regularly
Lastly, helping your loved one by checking up on them regularly can mean a lot. Call them or visit them regularly to make sure they are doing all right. Make sure to pay attention to cues from your loved ones. Estimate how often it is that you need to check up on them depending on their needs. Show them that you care and that you’ll be there for them no matter what. And don’t give up. It may take a while for you to see the improvement but it is worth it.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it doesn’t take much effort or time to make sure that your loved one is doing all right. Once you recognise the depression symptoms in your friend r a family member, make sure you are there for them to offer your help and assistance. These ten steps will help you and your loved one.