Supporting a loved one with depression

It can be difficult supporting a loved one or friend who is suffering with depression. One of the most important things you can do to support your friend or loved one is to learn about depression and be able to recognise it.

Understanding Depression

• Educate Yourself: Learn about depression to better understand what your loved one is going through. Recognise that depression is a medical condition, not a sign of weakness.

  
  

• Recognise the Symptoms: Common symptoms such as persistent sadness, loss of interest in activities, changes in appetite or sleep patterns, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and thoughts of self-harm or suicide.

Here are a few ways to show them your support and that they are not alone;

Just be there

It might not feel like much but letting them know you are there and they are not alone can make all the difference.

Listen to how they are feeling

Listen without judging and let them know that you are there to listen when they need it. Voicing how they feel and feeling heard can make a big difference.

Ask them if there is anything you can do to help

There might be nothing they need but just knowing that you are there if they do need anything will help them reach out when they do need help.

You're not a burden, you're important to me

Often those with depression will not reach out as they feel they are burdening others. Reassurance that they are not a burden can feel like a huge relief to someone with depression.

Encourage them to reach out to others

The more depressed someone is the more they withdraw. Depression recovery often starts with the person reaching out.

#depressionsupport

Contact me for more information at info@forcounselling.co.uk.