People who are struggling with depression need to know that there is someone out there who cares about them. So, if a loved one or someone you know is suffering from this condition, make sure you reach out to them in every way that you can.
Here are 10 ways you can do that:
1. Listen without judging or trying to fix anything.
If a friend, a family member, a colleague, or whoever struggling with depression shares their feelings and problems with you, it is best to let them speak without judging them or trying to fix anything.
Because sometimes trying to fix things or giving advice may not be a solution the other person is after. Sometimes all they want is someone to listen carefully to them so that they know there’s someone out there who truly cares about them.
2. Acknowledge their feelings.
Validating the feelings of someone suffering from depression means that you validate and understand what they are going through. It means you understand their condition and that its causes aren’t overdramatic or unimportant.
By acknowledging their feelings, you make them feel heard and understood. You help them realize that feeling those feelings is completely okay and that it’s okay to reach out to those around them too.
3. Learn about it.
When attempting to help someone through depression, it is best to gain knowledge about this condition. Because when you have some knowledge of what those who have depression are going through, it can help you better understand their feelings, thoughts, and actions. It can also be easier for them to open up and ask for your help.
4.Check-in.
There are many people with depression who refuse to reach out to those around them because they worry about burdening them with their worries and problems. And sometimes all they need is someone to check in with them. This might mean calling them or texting them to ask whether they are all right, and reminding them that they can always count on you.
5. Ask a couple of more questions.
When you ask someone struggling with depression if they’re okay and they reply with a yes, ask them whether they are really fine. Because sometimes asking them a couple of more questions can encourage them to open up and share their worries and problems with you.
6. Hug them.
Sometimes a loved one who is struggling with depression doesn’t need you to tell them you know what they are experiencing. Sometimes all they need from you is a hug. A big, warm, reassuring hug.
A hug can tell them that you care, that you understand their condition, that you know what they’re struggling with, and that you want to be there for them through the hard times.
7. Encourage them to look after themselves.
When a person is struggling with depression, it can be difficult for them to look after themselves. So, if a loved one is suffering from this condition, make sure you remind them of the importance of self-care. Encourage them to do the necessary things to keep themselves healthy. Encourage them to eat healthy food, exercise several times a week, walk in nature, and get enough sleep. Encourage them to look after their overall health.
8. Try to distract them.
Depression can fill your head with plenty of negative thoughts. And people suffering from depression often need a distraction that will give them a break from such thoughts.
So, if a loved one is struggling with depression, make sure you distract them in every way that you can. Watch a movie, listen to some relaxing music, walk in nature, exercise, or cook together, just make sure you do something that will help take their mind off their condition.
9. Remind them of their worth.
Depression can make you feel useless, unlovable, unimportant. So, if a loved one is struggling with this condition, always remind them that they’re strong, lovable, and important. Remind them that you truly love them and that they mean to you. Remind them that they don’t have to struggle alone.
10. Never give up on them.
If a loved one is living with depression, let them know that they are not alone. Let them know that you’ll always be there to support, help, and comfort them.
Make sure you’re always there to remind them to love and look after themselves. And make sure they always know that they have what it takes to overcome their condition.
