What to do if someone tells you they are depressed

How do I talk to someone about being depressed? What to Never Say to someone with depression? What are the signs of being depressed? If someone tells you they have depression , know that they are showing you part of the beautiful, messy, unpredictable frailties that come with being human.

It can be difficult to know what to say to someone who is depressed , but know that it’s unlikely you can make anything worse. Let them know that you are there to talk about it.

A reminder from a friend or loved one that, indee they’re not alone and they are loved can be invaluable. Having a supportive person to talk to when you’re feeling depressed can really help ease the symptoms a little. There are no magic words that will make someone feel better and it can be tough to know what to say to someone that is suffering. In my opinion, avoiding the subject is the worst tactic.

A lot of people view depression as some sort of character flaw. To let someone know that you understand that this is an illness that needs to be treated is important. One of the best things you can do for someone with depression , Everyday Health says , is listen to what they have to say.

If they’re angry, let them express that anger. Your caring can make a real difference.

If you need information and practical. I hope that you will keep trying - reaching out to strangers on the internet, does show that you want things to improve. The best thing you can do is simply accept what they are saying and be frank about how much depression sucks.

The stigma of depression often leads to social isolation because the depressed person believes no one understands what it’s like to be depressed. By avoiding social interaction, people with depression don’t have to confront the stigma or explain their struggle over and over again. When someone is depressed it is important that you stick by them no matter what. Just be a friend and listen to them. This can get exhausting so you have to make sure that you take care of yourself as well.

If things get to be too much you can always help your friend find a therapist. When helping someone who is depressed , do gently encourage the depressed person to recognize his or her depression and to take active steps to get help from a qualified psychologist or psychiatrist. Ask them what you do that doesn’t help. You can’t be expected to know how to respond.

Ask what they need from you and whether there’s something they need you to do differently. Depression can be different for everyone. Be open to the response and don’t take it personally. Don’t ask them what they’re depressed about. Encourage the person to call a suicide hotline number.

A suicidal or severely depressed person may not have the energy or motivation to find help. Be sure that the place you pick to talk with them is a private place that is free of distraction and others’ listening ears.

Tell your loved one that you care for them, and are concerned that they may be depressed. How can they be there for you if you are not being honest with them? You may not receive fully positive or supportive reactions from everyone you share your story with. That does not necessarily have anything to do with that person though. If someone is depressed or suicidal, reaffirm their feelings and let them know that you hear what they are saying, and that you understand their struggle.

Part of this is a lack of interest, and part is the fear of being the Debbie Downer of the group. There is also a fear of being rejected by others, which increases the reluctance to engage socially. In fact, most people have no idea what to say upon hearing that someone has a mental illness. Be mindful of the darkness, lethargy, hopelessness and loneliness they’re going through. Everyday activities like cleaning the house, paying bills, or feeding the dog may seem overwhelming, if not impossible, to someone who is depressed.

If someone is experiencing a mental health problem such as depression they may need the employer to make adjustments. Often this is about changes to attitude and culture rather than a costly intervention. If an employee voluntarily talks with you about health problems, including feeling depressed or down all the time, keep these points in mind: Do not try to diagnose the problem yourself.