If you have a friend or family member struggling with depression, you might not know what to say or how to lend support. The single best thing you can do for a friend with depression is listen without judgment. There are a number of phrases that are sometimes used with good intentions but can actually make a person with depression feel worse. Never tell a depressed person that they are struggling because of their own actions.
Just like most other illnesses, people with depression have no say in whether or or not they are affected.
Scientists suspect mood disorders are a result of both genetic predisposition and social factors, so people who struggle with depression did not choose to. While you can’t control someone else’s recovery from depression, you can start by encouraging the depressed person to seek help. Getting a depressed person into treatment can be difficult. Research has shown that people tend to withdraw when they are depresse so reaching out to a friend in need is an important first step. Chances are a depressed person is already struggling with feelings of guilt and self-criticism.
Practice self-care – Never ever forget to care of your min body, and other relationships when a loved one is struggling.