CHRISTINE M. VALENTIN, LCSW, LLC
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How Can I Help Someone Who Is Depressed?

9/13/2018

4 Comments

 
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Seeing a loved one suffer with depression is not an easy sight and at times can cause YOU to feel hopeless. For some individuals, depression can be debilitating and painful, making even the thought of getting help seem impossible. Trying to help someone who is depressed can be exhausting and met with many barriers. Arming yourself with knowledge, however, may help make the process easier. Below are a few suggestions of things to consider if you are trying to help someone you know. 

Learn about Depression - there are many misconceptions about depression. Believing a person is lazy, weak and/or not interested in getting better are a few perceptions that individuals may have. Depression, is in fact, a common disorder that can be caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental and psychological factors. Generally speaking, interventions like medications, psychotherapy, and social support are needed in order to help alleviate symptoms. 

Avoid Judgment - aside from understanding what depression is, it is also important to avoid judging your loved one. Being judgmental may cause your loved one to disregard what you are saying, especially if he/she is in denial of their symptoms. Being supportive by educating them about symptoms, options and resources can help provide the support they need and hopefully allow them to get some help.

Take Suicidal Talk Seriously - if your loved one has thoughts of hurting himself/herself it is important to contact his/her doctor right away or contact 911 if warranted. If they have not mentioned suicidal thoughts, be sure ask him/her directly so as to rule out the possibility. While some individuals may see this topic at taboo, it is crucial to know if these thoughts are floating around your loved one's head so that you can ensure treatment with the proper healthcare professional is obtained immediately. 

Research Resources - knowing what types of assistance are available can help convince your loved one to reach out for help. Resources like local support groups, reading materials, online websites, etc., can help alleviate the feeling of isolation your loved one may be experiencing. Have this information handy when talking with him/her so that it will be immediately available when he/she needs it. Also consider including contact information for the National Suicide Hotline. This can be especially beneficial if your loved one is too ashamed to tell you the truth about his/her thoughts. 

Aside from those listed above and those in the comments, what else should be included in this brief list of suggestions? Please share your thoughts below.

4 Comments
Barbara altman link
10/2/2013 02:52:24 am

I have a couple of suggestions:
1. Be prepared to listen to your loved one. This not only includes lending an ear. It also includes observing and responding to body language.
2. Encourage your loved one to develop his/her strengths.
Often just living in one's strengths can pull someone over the top when it comes to conquering depression.
3. Encourage an eclectic approach to healing. Look into and check out every healing modality you can find.

Reply
Christine M. Valentin link
10/2/2013 03:38:30 am

Hi Barbara,

Thank you for your suggestions. You mention some valid points, especially listening and paying attention to body language.

Reply
Jeff Drake link
10/24/2013 01:48:31 am

I would add "Take care of yourself," to ways people can help loved ones with depression. Caregivers need to get exercise, eat well, and attend to their spiritual, physical, and psychological needs in order to be able to help those who are depressed. A family member or friend can also help a depressed person comply with treatment, whether it is going to therapy or taking medications as directed, and can help observe what medications are working and which are not.

Reply
Christine M. Valentin link
10/25/2013 07:30:32 am

Thank you for your contribution Jeff. Family and friends definitely need to care for themselves in order to be of best assistance to the individuals they are concerned about as it can affect their level of patience and willingness to help.

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    Christine 
    M. 
    Valentin

    As a licensed clinical social worker, I help individuals and families feel less anxious, less stressed and more functional. This blog is meant to offer some guidance to individuals to enhance their mental well-being. Sign up below to receive them directly in your inbox.

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This Site is not intended to provide psychotherapy advice. The Site is intended only for use by individuals in search of general information of interest pertaining to anxiety, depression and related topics. Content is not intended to replace or serve as substitute for professional consultation or service. Contained observations and opinions should not be misconstrued as specific counseling advice.
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  • Home
  • About
    • About Me
    • Location, Hours & Fees
    • Contact Me
  • Services
    • Individual Play Therapy
    • Family Play Therapy
    • Adult Therapy
    • Video Counseling
  • Forms
  • Privacy Practices Notice