Battling depressive symptoms is quite challenging, both for those experiencing them and for their loved ones trying the best they can to offer support. Depression, being one of the most prominent mood disorders, can easily disrupt the daily lives of individuals and their families, sometimes to the point where it feels unbearable (unfortunately, it’s not so uncommon for the disorder to have a tragic outcome).
While professional assistance is crucial in addressing depression, there are meaningful ways you, as a friend or family member, can provide support. Your strength, compassion, and non-judgmental attitude could be more than helpful to the people you care about. Today, we’ll explore what you can do to support a loved one struggling with depression. As always, stay tuned!
What is depression?
Depression is a common mood disorder that affects millions of people around the world. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), about 5% of adults globally suffer from it. In most cases, the condition is marked by constant sadness and emptiness. These feelings can undermine everyday life, making activities that once brought joy feel completely dull and unfulfilling.
Now, understandably, we all have moments when we feel down or hopeless, and these are often triggered by certain life events (the death of a loved one, divorce, etc.). But when these feelings linger longer than what feels natural, it might be a sign of something more serious – depression.
Depression is a serious condition affecting many people all around the world.
What does it mean for depression to result in a “tragic outcome”?
Depression shouldn’t be taken lightly: suicidal thoughts and ideation represent one of its most recognizable symptoms. Even though many people never follow through on these impulses, enough do to treat this disease seriously. Speaking of percentages, here are some statistics highlighting the scope of the issue we’re dealing with.
How many people struggle with depression in the US? (the facts)
In the United States, depression is something you’d call a widespread mental health concern. In 2021, as reported by the National Institute on Mental Health, an estimated 21 million US adults (or about 8.3% of the population) experienced a major depressive episode (at least two weeks during which a person feels persistently sad or loses interest in most activities). Among these individuals, about 14.5 million had severe impairments due to their depression. The condition is also widespread among adolescents: roughly 5 million, or 20.1%, experienced major depressive episodes in 2021.
Timely and efficient treatment is essential for treating depression and enhancing the quality of life in both adults and teenagers. The help they receive from their friends, family, and community is as important. Let’s investigate the potential impact of this assistance.
How do you support a loved one struggling with depression?
While professional treatment for depression, supervised by experienced mental health experts, doesn’t have a proper alternative (meaning it can’t be replaced), support from loved ones still plays a great role. Although it, as already noted, can’t substitute for professional care, this support is extremely beneficial and can significantly enhance the overall treatment process, boosting the chances of complete recovery.
Practice a non-judgmental attitude and encourage open communication
The last thing someone experiencing depressive episodes needs is judgment. Every person’s feelings are valid, and criticizing your loved ones for how they feel during these times is harmful. Remember the seriousness of their condition and avoid making superficial comments. Instead, make it your objective to understand what they’re going through, even if you can’t fully grasp it. Additionally, practicing open and empathetic communication is something of imperative when supporting a loved one with depression.
Let them know you’re there
Even if they don’t always act on it (people with depression often worry that they might be bothering you), it’s important to let them know that they can reach out to you whenever they’re feeling down. Ensure they understand you’re available and willing to listen, regardless of their assumptions about your availability. Knowing that support is there can provide a comforting sense of security and reassurance during troublesome times.
Let your loved one know that you’re always there.
Be patient with your loved one, and don’t measure them by yourself
As we’re sure you know, it can be tempting to measure others by your own experiences, but it’s especially important not to do this when you support a loved one struggling with depression. You might be inclined to think or even say: “If I were you, I’d…” but resisting this urge is crucial. Even with the best intentions, you (probably) lack the personal, intrinsic understanding of their experience. Instead, focus on offering support without comparison.
Help them find proper treatment
The first step might be to explain to your friend that depression is a medical condition – not a personal flaw or weakness – and that it’s treatable. Many people mistakenly believe that they should just “snap out of it” on their own, but depression is a complex illness that requires proper treatment.
Suggest seeking professional help
The following thing you ought to do is advise your loved one(s) about getting in touch with mental health specialists. Psychologists and psychiatrists generally agree that treating depression calls for specialized attention. Depression is a complicated illness that requires more care than friends and family can provide. Experts are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to deliver a precise diagnosis and treatment plan, which may include counseling, medication, or – more frequently – a mix of the two.
Offer to help schedule their appointments and accompany them to the visits
Of course, your loved one mightn’t feel up to the task of scheduling an appointment or may struggle with the idea of leaving home to see a doctor (the latter is a common symptom of depression). That is where you can step in and offer a helping hand. Taking care of the logistics and accompanying them on their first visit can make the process easier and less overwhelming for them.
Conclusion
Now, you have a clearer idea of how to support a loved one struggling with depression. Although depression is a difficult mental health condition, it is also quite treatable, and a growing number of individuals all over the world are getting the support they require; professional care is necessary, but it’s not always sufficient. Confining in friends, partners, or family members can benefit someone facing this challenging illness and improve their well-being.
Written by: Danny Mills
About the Author: Danny Mills II is the Chief Marketing Officer at Time Wellness Arkansas, a leading wellness center that provides holistic and personalized care for individuals and families in the Southern US. His main goal is to help people achieve optimal health and wellness through compassion and to foster a culture of excellence.
Discover More…
- Unlock the secret to a happier, healthier lifestyle by delving into additional captivating articles on our website at: Smart Strategies for Successful Living.
- Enjoy our uplifting and inspiring videos on our YouTube channel at: CLICK HERE.
- For more resources on Lifestyle: CLICK HERE.
References:
- Depressive disorder (depression): CLICK HERE.
- Major Depression: CLICK HERE.
- Depression: Supporting a family member of friend: CLICK HERE.
