Supporting a friend or loved one who is experiencing depression can be challenging but profoundly impactful. Depression affects millions of people worldwide, leading to feelings of hopelessness, isolation, and despair.

What is Depression?

A widespread and serious mental health condition known as depression is marked by enduring feelings of hopelessness and melancholy as well as a lack of interest in or enjoyment from once-enjoyable activities. It may have an impact on a person's thoughts, emotions, and day-to-day functioning. Depression can occur at any age and may vary in severity and duration.

Symptoms of Depression

Symptoms of depression can vary from person to person but typically include the following:

• Persistent Sadness: A continuous feeling of sadness, emptiness, or hopelessness lasting most of the day.
• Loss of Interest: A marked decrease in interest or pleasure in all or most activities, including those that were previously enjoyable (anhedonia).
• Changes in Appetite: Variations in the desire to eat, including eating excessively or too little, or substantial weight loss or gain.
• Sleep Disturbances: Insomnia (trouble sleeping) or hypersomnia (sleeping too much) that disrupts daily life.
• Fatigue: Persistent fatigue or loss of energy, even after rest or sleep.
• Feelings of Worthlessness or Guilt: Intense feelings of worthlessness, inadequacy, or excessive guilt about past actions or perceived shortcomings.
• Difficulty Concentrating: Trouble concentrating, making decisions, or remembering details, which can affect work or school performance.
• Psychomotor Agitation or Retardation: Noticeable restlessness (agitation) or slowed physical movements and speech (retardation).
• Thoughts of Death or Suicide: Recurring suicidal thoughts, suicidal attempts, or death-related thoughts.
• Physical Symptoms: Unexplained physical issues such as headaches, stomachaches, or chronic pain without a clear medical cause.

If you want to be there for someone struggling with depression, some essential tips and strategies to help.

• Educate Yourself About Depression:- Understanding what depression is and its symptoms can help you provide better support. Learn about the signs, such as persistent sadness, lack of interest in activities, changes in appetite, and sleep disturbances. You can address the problem with compassion and empathy if you know this.  Additionally, practicing assertiveness in your interactions can ensure you offer support while maintaining healthy boundaries and encouraging open communication. By being assertive, you can express your care and concern in a respectful and considerate way of their needs.
• Be a Good Listener:- Being there and paying attention is one of the most important things you can do. Encourage them to communicate their emotions without passing judgment. Sometimes, just knowing that someone is willing to listen can alleviate loneliness and isolation.
• Offer Practical Support:- People with depression may struggle with daily tasks. Offer to help with activities such as grocery shopping, cooking meals, or running errands. These small gestures can make a significant difference and show that you care.
• Encourage Professional Help:- While your support is essential, encourage them to seek help from a mental health professional platform like TalktoAngel an online counselling platform. Offer to assist them in finding a therapist or accompany them to appointments if they are comfortable. Professional help can provide them with the tools they need to cope with depression effectively.
• Check In Regularly:- Stay in touch with them and visit often to see how they're doing. A quick phone call or text can let them know they're not alone. Regular assistance might make them feel more appreciated and connected.
• Avoid Clichés and Dismissive Comments:- Phrases like "just think positive" or "it could be worse" can be unhelpful and even harmful. Instead, validate their feelings and remind them that it’s okay to struggle. Show understanding and compassion rather than offering unsolicited advice.
• Encourage Healthy Habits:- While it’s essential to respect their pace, gently encourage them to engage in activities that promote well-being, such as exercising, maintaining a balanced diet, and practicing mindfulness or meditation. These habits can positively impact their mood and overall mental health.
• Know Your Limits:- Supporting someone with depression can be emotionally taxing. Be aware of your feelings and know when to take a step back to recharge. It's okay to set boundaries to ensure that you can continue to offer support without compromising your well-being.
• Be Patient:- Depression recovery can be a difficult process with no guarantees of success. Show patience and understanding throughout their journey, reminding them that healing is not linear. Your unwavering support can provide hope during their most challenging moments.

Conclusion

Empathy, tolerance, and comprehension are necessary when helping someone who is depressed. By educating yourself, being a good listener, offering practical support, encouraging healthy habits, and promoting resilience, you can make a meaningful difference in their lives. Remember, while you can provide support, it’s important to take care of yourself, too. Supporting someone with depression can sometimes be challenging, but helping them build self-esteem and maintaining open, non-judgmental communication can encourage healing and growth.

If needed, don’t hesitate to seek help from the best psychologist in India who can offer professional guidance and resources. With compassion and understanding, you can help guide them toward recovery and improved mental health.

Contribution: Dr (Prof) R K Suri, Clinical Psychologist, life coach, and mentor TalktoAngel, and Ms Sangeeta Pal, Counselling Psychologist.

References

• American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). American Psychiatric Publishing.
• National Institute of Mental Health. (2022). Major depression. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/major-depression
• Mayo Clinic. (2021). Depression (major depressive disorder). https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/major-depression/symptoms-causes/syc-20350475
• McLeod, S. (2019). Theories of depression. https://www.simplypsychology.org/depression.html