If youre reading this, though, youre already doing something right.
Looking for answers and learning about depression is an act of care and love in itself.
The thing is, saying something is often better than saying nothing.
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Unfortunately, depression doesnt need a good reason to impact someone.
I already feel guilty enough for having every opportunity and still feeling this way.
If someone says they have depression, dont venture to argue.
The best thing you could do is simply accept what they are saying and be frank about how muchdepressionsucks.
Pretending that you do can minimize what your friend is going through.
This is something Roxanne really appreciates hearing when she feels depressed, she says.
The previous item on this list doesnt mean you have to clam up about your own mental health.
If youve dealt withdepressionin the past or present, you should feel free to let your loved one know.
This information can help a person going through a difficult time feel less alone, Ross says.
Avoid statements like, I know exactly how you feel right now.
If your friend or relative is experiencing depression and is not in treatment, they would likely benefit fromtherapy.
Friends and family cannot fulfill the responsibility of a professional, Nydegger says.
Therapy is not just about talking and getting it off your chest.
It is complex and requires a lot of training and experience.
Instead, make the suggestion gently and tentatively, Ross says.
Maybe theyll shut the conversation down, in which case you’re free to revisit it later.
Or maybe theyre waffling on the idea and could use the extra support and destigmatization.
You may need to encourage them to seek professional treatment, Sumner says.
For most people,treatment is effective, Sumner says.
But they also need to be open to it.
After that, though, give the person the chance to take action.
Encourage the prospective patient to make the call themselves, Nydegger says.
[The person] should take the responsibility for their care and make the arrangements.
isnt likely to be helpful.
Not everyone who experiences depression also experiences suicidal thoughts, so this may not be relevant in all situations.
That could mean getting in touch with their family or driving them to theemergency room.
