Depression is a very real and serious issue that many people face. If you know someone who is struggling with depression, it can be difficult to know how to help them. Here are seven ways to support someone who is dealing with depression.
Depression is a grave and ordinary medical condition that influences your emotions, thoughts, and actions. The World Health Organization predicts that 5% of all adults will have depression by 2021. Depression is a frequent mental health disorder than can affect anyone- even people close to you. Recognizing how to talk about depression with somebody who has it can be useful. Depression is treatable, and with the support of family and friends, people who have depression can find hope and eventually lead fulfilling lives. Depression manifests itself differently in everyone, so it is important to be patient and understand that there is no single way to ‘fix’ someone’s depression. Be supportive, listen non-judgmentally, and encourage your loved one to seek professional help if they are struggling. Depression is a serious illness, but with the right support, people can and do recover.
Science backs up what many of us know intuitively- being social creatures, we need others to thrive. When depressed it’s hard to remember this, but reminding a depressed friend or family member that they are not alone can help them enormously. According to various studies, good social connections reduce the likelihood of depression and anxiety and protect against these mental health conditions.
So, what should you say to someone sad? Here are seven things you may say to show your concern.
What to say to a depressed person?
1. Let’s talk about it when you’re ready. I’m here for you.
You can’t force someone to talk, but making them aware that you’re there for them might provide comfort. If they haven’t told you about their sadness, you might comment on how concerned you are about them and how available you are if they want to talk. Often, people are not okay when they say they are. Next time someone tells you they’re fine, remind them that they can always come to you if they need someone to talk to. They may appreciate your support and come to you during difficult times in the future.
2. How can I help you today?
Depression affects one’s energy level, difficulty sleeping, and motivation. It might be difficult to get out of bed at times. You may offer to cook dinner for them if they aren’t eating properly. Perhaps they would like a morning call or text to make sure they arrive on time at work. Offering to help is an expression of acceptance.
All it takes is listening sometimes. It does not have to be a big deal to assist someone. Picking up the phone, feeding them, or taking them to an appointment might all be simple acts.
3. How are you coping with your depression?
This question can give you insights into their healing journey and if they need help getting professional care.
It’s imperative to remember that depression is not a personal failure. If you have friends or family suffering from depression, it is vital to urge them to seek professional help. Doing so demonstrates bravery and resolve rather than weakness.
Inquiring about the treatment’s development may help them stay on track with their treatment plan. You can also tell them when you notice positive changes. This might assist to show that it is effective, even if it does not always seem so.
4. I may not know exactly how you feel, but I want you to know that you’re not alone.
Depression is a medical condition that should not be taken lightly. If you have a friend or family member going through depression, it’s crucial to remind them of their strengths and not make them feel like they’re weak for asking for help. You can do this by simply checking in on their progress every once in a while and seeing how the treatment is going – letting them know that you support and believe in them.
5. You matter to me.
It’s always nice to be appreciated or desired. Unhappy people may feel the polar opposite of this. This is why telling someone they’re important to you, that you need them in your life, and that they matter can be so therapeutic. You may also go further with what you appreciate about them or how highly you respect something they do.
6. That must be tough; how are you managing?
The objective is to acknowledge that you understand how difficult it is for them. Recognizing how debilitating depression and its symptoms can be might assist them in feeling recognized. It serves as a constant reminder that you are listening, seeing them, and offering assistance.
Oftentimes, people who are suffering from depression don’t feel heard or seen. By acknowledging how difficult it can be to live with this illness we’re able to show that they matter and have our full attention- which will make all the difference in your friend’s recovery!
7. I am sorry that you’re going through this, and I’m here to assist you if needed.
The misconception is that there is a perfect thing to say to someone who is depressed. Your words will not cure them. They can, however, help. Let them know that there is still hope exists. It’s possible that reminding someone you’re available whenever they need you — whether it’s for a small job or assistance in a crisis — could be beneficial to saving a life.
The idea is that there is a “perfect thing” to say when someone who’s depressed has lost hope, or can’t seem to get out of their head. Your words won’t cure them — but they might help! Let the person know you’re available any time; whether it be for just small jobs around town…or if something bigger comes up then we will be able to assist each other through those tough times together.
What Not to Say to a Depressed Person
It’s critical to note that giving advice and requesting assistance is not the same thing. If someone asks for your opinion, accept it—but only if you want to. It’s perfectly all right to say no. Do not offer well-meaning solutions or statements disguised as helpful hints to appear sympathetic or knowledgeable; this will be seen as unsympathetic or ignorant.
Never say any of the following to someone who is depressed:
- “Just think positive.”
- “I’m not sure what’s causing you so much pain.”
- “Everything will come to a positive resolution in the end.”
- “I stopped eating sugar and was able to heal myself! You should give it a try.”
- “There are a lot of people who are in considerably worse condition than you.”
- “It’s time to leave. All you have to do now is get out of there.”
Knowing the warnings to suicide could save a life.
The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention outlines three types of suicide warning signs to be aware of:
Talk
If someone you know expresses any of the following thoughts, they may be suicidal and in need of help: feeling hopeless, being a burden to others, having no reason to live, or feeling trapped.
It’s important to take these statements seriously and get help for the person as soon as possible. Suicidal thoughts are often a sign that the person is experiencing tremendous pain and needs support.
There are several resources accessible to people who are having suicidal thoughts. People can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. They may be reached at 1-800-273-8255.
Behavior
To spot someone at risk for suicide, pay attention to changes in behavior, especially those related to a traumatic event.
There are several warning signs that someone might be thinking about suicide. They include:
- Increased substance use or misuse
- Searching for methods of self-harm online
- Withdrawing from friends and family
- Sudden drastic changes in behavior
Mood
The most frequent condition linked to suicidal ideas is depression. Depression, anxiety, lack of interest, and agitation are all moods that may signal suicidal ideation. They may experience one or more of these moods in varying degrees. If left untreated or unaddressed, depression can be quite dangerous.
In conclusion
Both social and professional assistance is required. Following up with family, especially if they have exhibited warning signals of sadness or suicidal ideation, is just one method in which we may all assist each other.
Warning signs of suicide include talking about wanting to die, expressing feelings of hopelessness, and having a plan or means to carry out the act.
Depression is a serious mental illness that should not be treated lightly. If you are worried about a loved one, please do not hesitate to reach out for help. Professional assistance is critical to provide the best possible care for those who suffer from this disease. Family and friends can also play an important role in the healing process by providing social support. We hope our blog has helped raise awareness about depression and suicide, and that you will continue to read our posts as we work together to fight this epidemic.
