Depression, an incapacitating and an isolating disorder, can jeopardize relationships, if not treated well. Someone living with a depressed individual might feel neglected and deprived and subsequently, adopt an indifferent approach. At times, he or she might feel like walking on the eggshells due to the attitude and reaction of the depressed individual. However, it’s important to realize that with a little care and some effort, the relationship can be salvaged. Here are some steps that can be taken to expand support to a depressed person:
Attempting to be there together: Depression can get painful for the depressed individuals and their loved ones. Nonetheless, one can still offer support by holding hands, providing reassurance that everything will be alright through the eyes or by giving a gentle back rub. An individual may also say comforting words such as,”You aren’t alone in this,””We will find out a way together” or”You’re so important to me.”
Trying small loving gestures: Some people aren’t too comfortable with emotional expressions. They could still extend their support by trying gestures like packing a lunch for the one who is depressed, leaving a care or a love note in the lunch box, sending them a text after regular intervals, helping them with the laundry, Wildlife Removal Chattanooga TN, doing grocery shopping with or for them, accompanying them for a walk, etc..
Avoid judging or criticizing: It can be very tempting to tell a depressed person he or she’s overreacting or lacking a perspective; however, these words may puncture a person’s self-esteem. Thus, these must be avoided Depression is a serious mental disorder that can’t be won over with a change in outlook or by creating strong willpower. It is necessary that a friend or a loved one verifies the feelings and emotions of the depressed person so the latter can think about moving forward.
Paying attention to their self-care: Oftentimes, depressed folks find it tough to focus on their self-care. They might not get out of bed the entire day, might skip meals, may not take shower for days, etc..
Rewarding them instead of penalizing: Threatening a depressed person by saying things like,”If you don’t take care of yourself, eat dinner, sleep on time, I’ll end this relationship,” is a merciless method of telling them that they’re awful. Instead, one needs to use statements which are rewarding and encouraging at the same time like”Oh! You’re up early, will we go for a run?”
Encouraging them to challenge their negative thought processes: Depressed people have serious negative thinking patterns. It’s necessary for a friend or a loved one to help them question these ideas empirically. By way of instance, if they say,”I am worthless,” or”I’m horrible,” one must ask them gently what makes them think like this and that discussion should be helpful in breaking the negative patterns.
Depression is treatable and you must never challenge the power of treatment. Even though the self-help and support systems can help in the symptom alleviation, not one can be as helpful as treatment like cognitive behavioral therapy and medication. Therefore, an individual has to help the gloomy to seek treatment.