Does your best friend, brother, sister, or life partner seem a little different these days? Does he or she not smile or talk like he or she used to, or does he or she seem upset about everything? When we see such a change, we get a little scared. Maybe he or she is struggling with a mental condition called depression. This is a very difficult and lonely journey. But the best thing is that you can be a great source of strength for him or her on this journey. So let's see how exactly you can help someone like that.
How do you know if someone has depression?
It's sometimes not easy to recognize that someone is depressed, because everyone deals with it differently and shows different symptoms.
Simply put, one of the main symptoms is a loss of vitality . That is, things like interest, energy, and desire for work that were once present diminish. Bored with everything and trying to stay away from everyone is another symptom.
But remember one thing. Just feeling sad and depression are two different things. When we have a bad day, we feel sad, and it goes away after a while. But depression is a deep mental depression that lasts for days, weeks.
If someone is stuck in the same sadness, it could be depression. Let's look at the main symptoms.
| Common Signs of Depression | |
|---|---|
| Feelings | Feeling sad, empty, or hopeless most of the day (in children and young people this may manifest as constant irritability). |
| Weight change | Significant weight gain or loss. |
| Sleep | Insomnia or sleeping too much. |
| Behavior | Being constantly restless, angry, or frustrated. |
| Self-esteem | Constantly feeling guilty or worthless. |
| Thinking ability | Difficulty concentrating and making decisions. |
| Dangerous thoughts | Frequent thoughts of death or suicide. |
Are the characteristics of older people and younger people different?
Yes, sometimes there may be differences.
- Elderly people: Depression is not a normal part of aging. In addition to the above symptoms, they may also experience a decrease in speaking speed and walking speed. They may also experience physical pain such as headaches and body aches, and may increase their use of drugs or alcohol.
- Young children and adolescents: Their distress may manifest as anger, irritability, or constant sensitivity. They may be unable to concentrate on schoolwork or refuse to go to school. Some young people may also be tempted to use drugs or self-harm.
If you notice that someone close to you is exhibiting these symptoms, the best thing to do is encourage them to see a psychiatrist or mental health counselor.
How to help someone suffering from depression?
Your support is very important in their journey to recovery. It's not always an easy journey, but there are things you can do.
1. Learn about depression
Read as much as you can about this condition, its causes, treatments, and ways to help. When you know this, it will be easier for you to understand their behavior, be patient, and treat them with compassion. Then you will understand, "He's not bored, he's not distant, he's really suffering from an illness."
2. Provide a little help with daily tasks
For someone with depression, even everyday tasks can feel like a huge burden. Getting the kids ready for school in the morning, going to the store to pick up groceries, or doing the laundry can feel like a mountain. Imagine, instead of cooking for them, you asked, "Shall we cook together?" It makes them feel like they're not alone and that they can do something.
The most important thing is, don't try to force anything. Start with small things like, "Let's make some tea?", "Let's go out for a walk?" These small steps are a big boost for them.
3. Listen patiently and without judgment
Sometimes they don't need solutions, they just need someone to listen to what's on their mind. When they talk, listen with genuine interest and without judgment. Ask questions like, "Did I understand you correctly?" or "What do you need from me right now?" This will make them feel like they have someone who understands them.
4. Keep inviting, but don't pressure.
People with depression tend to avoid social interactions. They may say "no" when you ask them to go somewhere. But keep asking. But it might be easier for them to say, "Shall we go for a walk?" rather than a big party. Give them the freedom to say "no," and don't make them feel guilty about it. Maybe one day they'll say "yes."
5. Refer gently to medical treatment
They may feel scared or embarrassed about going to see a doctor. So talk about it very gently. Say things like, "Are there places where you can get help? Let's look into that?" or "If you'd like, I'll come see a doctor with you." Let them make the decision, just offer your support.
Never do these things!
As well as helping, it's also important to know what not to do. Sometimes the things we say with good intentions can hurt them even more.
| Things to Avoid | Description |
|---|---|
| Saying things like "What's that, make up your mind" | Don't say things like "That's a small thing," "There are people with bigger problems than you," or "Be strong." That belittles their feelings. |
| Criticism | Don't talk about their physical appearance, like weight gain or loss. They're already very negative about themselves. |
| Force | Don't force them to do things they don't want to do. Respect their boundaries. It's better to say, "I'm here if you need to talk" than "You have to tell me this." |
| Suggesting alcohol/drugs | Some people think that alcohol is the best thing for sadness. But it makes depression worse. So don't turn to such things. |
What to do in an emergency?
Sometimes you can go beyond what you can do on your own. Take action immediately if you see these signs:
- If you are talking about suicide or self-harm.
- If the illness is so severe that you cannot take care of yourself.
- If there is a risk of harm to others.
- If the symptoms of depression are getting worse day by day.
The best thing to do at a time like this is to take him to the nearest hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) as soon as possible. Never underestimate talking about suicidal thoughts. It can be a cry for help.
Don't forget to take care of yourself too.
Helping someone who is struggling with depression can be emotionally draining. If you want to be a source of strength for someone else, you first need to be strong yourself.
So make time for yourself. Do things you enjoy. Talk to friends, go for a walk, exercise. If you too feel like you're struggling to cope with this burden, it's worth seeing a counselor.
Take-Home Message
- Depression is not a weakness, it is a medical condition that requires treatment. Learn about it, understand it, and help.
- What your loved one needs is your patience, compassion, and non-judgmental listening.
- Don't try to force them. Help them with small things, at their own pace.
- If you are having suicidal thoughts, take it seriously and seek medical advice immediately or go to the hospital's Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU).
- While helping others, take care of your own mental health. It's essential to take care of yourself too.
💬 Comments (0)
No comments have been posted yet. Add your comment here for the first time.
Add your comment