When the people who matter to us become depressed it can make us feel as though we are failing. No matter what we do, we cannot seem to help them shake what they’re going through and it really sucks.
Depression isn’t just being sad and it’s important to know that because it’s not just something you can force someone through. Some people need medication to get their depression under control and others must take their own steps to figure things out. While you cannot cure your friends or family of depression, being there for them can do a world of good even if you cannot quite see it.
If you want to be able to help the people around you who may be facing depression before anything else you need to know the symptoms. Depression comes with irritability, hopelessness, insomnia, changes in appetite, and so much more. It is something that many people deem ‘one size fits all’ but it’s nothing like that at all. Some people will be able to function just fine all the while depressed and others will be unable to even get out of bed.
Supporting the person close to you who is facing depression is going to take a toll on you so don’t feel like you have to do this all on your own. You too need someone to speak with from time to time. Encourage this person to seek treatment and be willing to listen to them. While they might not come to you right off the bat let them know that if they need someone to share their feelings or thoughts with that you’re there for them.
Be positive in your reinforcements and do your best not to cause them more stress. For instance, if they say they don’t feel like going out offer to come over and watch a movie with them or something else of the sort. Just you being there is a great relief for them even though you might not entirely be able to comprehend that at first.
For more information on depression and how to help support someone in your life please check out the video below. You should above all else make sure you’re taken care of so that you can through that help others. Even in situations like this, your needs should not fall through the cracks. Things aren’t going to get better overnight, just be patient and caring.