Supporting someone with depression: Know what to do | The Odyssey Online
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Health and Wellness

Supporting someone with depression: Know what to do

A mental illness that needs more recognition

Kaitlyn Taylor Martin
Jul 31, 2017
Florida Atlantic University
14
Supporting someone with depression: Know what to do
Huffington Post

1. Be an active involvement in their life. Remind the person that you are always there for them. Even if they seem fine, it is always a nice gesture to remind them every once in a while.

2. Do not criticize. Depression is a mental illness that needs to be more aware of. They are going through a period in their life where they don't feel their absolute best. Do not think any less of them because of their depression.

3. Keep the negative comments to yourself. Telling them to "Get over it," "Toughen up," or "What's your deal?" is not doing anything to help them. If anything it could possibly be making it worse. Try to be more positive around the person and appreciative.

4. Acts of kindness. Anything that comes from your heart will dearly be appreciated towards the person who is depressed. Whether it is buying them lunch or bringing them a gift. They will surely appreciate it. And his reminds them that you care.

5. Do not compare. Do not compare miserable Monday mornings to how they are feeling. Unless you yourself has experienced a state of depression before. Your one bad day is not compared to how they are feeling at all.

6. Show you care. Ask how they are or what they did today. Small talk about their day will help them realize that you care for them and wonder how they are. Make an effort to show you care in some way everyday.

7. Understand what depression is. Depression is more than just being sad. Symptoms consist of sleeping problems, weight issues, anxiety, mood swings, change in behavior, change in cognitive thinking such as suicidal thoughts, and loss of interest in things they love. Learning about it can give someone a better idea of what depression is exactly.

8. Listening is key. "One of the most sincere forms of respect is actually listening to what another has to say."

9. Ask what they may be thinking. Knowing their intentions about how they feel and what is going on with them can be a good way to know what is going on with them. However, does not mean interrogate them until they tell you. It may take time to tell you how they're feeling.

10. And lastly, take their feelings seriously. Depression is not something to joke about and can be a serious topic.

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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
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