Few Pointers To Help a Depression Affected Dear Person

It is very difficult to face the depression of a very close person because he or she most probably is unaware of the fact that the situation demands help and that you are willing to provide that help. That person will be irritable, irrational and may experience suicidal tendencies. Try to determine that person to seek professional care. Accompany the person to the specialist's office to make the experience less stressful.

Self education regarding depression, its symptoms and means of treatment will enable you to provide help to the dear person that has this very common problem. Be particularly careful with children and teenagers in that situation. Address a specialist that can give you the necessary information about means to handle such situations.

1. Help get treatment:

  • - If the person resists seeking treatment and is not suicidal, be patient and supportive and make sure they understand you are there to help when they are ready for the next step
  • - If they are suicidal, seek immediate help
  • - Help them understand that they have a disease that can be treated
  • - Identify a doctor for them and help them understand their insurance benefits
  • - Monitor their medication
  • - Encourage the person to stick with treatment
  • - Make an appointment for them
  • - Accompany them to the doctor

Take very seriously any thoughts of suicide of a beloved person. Try to question the person about these thoughts and possible reasons. Studies proved that discussions about suicide discourage the actual attempts.

2. Offer support during and after treatment:

  • - Be understanding
  • - Do not give up on them no matter how slow the process . . . or they might give up on themselves
  • - Offer encouragement
  • - Engage them in conversation and listen
  • - Do not disparage their feelings, and
  • - Never judge or act like you ‘know' how they feel. You don't.

The people affected by depression need help even if they don't admit it. The recovery may take a while and the medicines may or may not work on the particular case of that person. But more than 85 percent of the cases have full recovery. Encourage the person by telling him or her that things are going to be better.

3. Help them rediscover the joys of life one step at the time

  • - Offer diversion and company (example: invite the depressed person for walks, outings, movies, and other activities)
  • - Encourage participation in other activities that once gave the person pleasure
  • - Be gently insistent if your invitations are refused but do not push the depressed person to undertake too much too soon