Depression is not merely a sign of mental weakness but a physical illness. People who are not afflicted cannot fully understand what those with depression feel. When someone close to us is suffering from depression, it is essential to know how to care for them and understand them as much as possible. Here are guidelines on what to do and what not to do.
Things to Do
- Highlight Their Positives: Regularly remind the patient of their positive traits. Beyond medication, a key part of depression treatment is helping the patient see their own value, which can motivate them to live and fight on.
- Encourage Activity: Invite the patient to engage in activities that involve movement, such as light sports, games, or crafts. Physical activity can reduce excessive worrying and feelings of sadness, while also releasing endorphins, which produce happiness similar to medication.
- Listen Attentively and Comfortably: Listen with full attention and a relaxed demeanor. Do not pressure or make decisions for them. Depressed patients often feel like they are a burden. They need to feel that someone is genuinely willing to listen without judgment, creating a trusting and comfortable environment. This openness is crucial, as they might harbor thoughts of self-harm or suicide. By listening, you can help prevent potential crises.
Things Not to Do
- Don’t Dismiss Their Feelings: Telling the patient to seek solace in religious practices or meditation without supporting them can make them feel abandoned and more isolated, potentially leading to suicidal thoughts.
- Don’t Ignore Suicidal Thoughts: Avoid ignoring or dismissing talk of wanting to die. Many believe discussing suicide with a depressed person may encourage them to act on it, but ignoring these thoughts can make the patient feel misunderstood and unsupported, worsening their condition.
- Don’t Pressure Them: Avoid making the patient feel rushed to recover or pressured with comments like, “When will you get better?” or “You should be better by now.” Such pressure can make them feel more like a burden, and any improvement may regress due to increased stress.
Recommendations
- Be Supportive and Willing to Help: Approach them with a willingness to help, actively listen, and show understanding. Accompany them to psychiatric appointments and be there for them during follow-up visits.
- Stay With Them if They Express Suicidal Thoughts: Never leave them alone if they express a desire to harm themselves or mention suicidal thoughts. Ensure they have company and support.
