Hey psych to go-ers welcome back. Do you know someone struggling with depression but don't know how you can help?
Depression is a very sensitive matter and no matter how good your intentions might be
You could end up saying the wrong thing and make them feel worse
So if you want to have a better idea on how to express your concern to your loved one going through depression
Here are seven good examples for you to start with
but before you begin, we would like to mention that this video is created for educational purposes only if you suspect someone
You know is dealing with depression. It's best to encourage them to seek professional help from a qualified mental health professional. Let's begin
1. Tell them you care about them
One of the most harmful symptoms of depression is intense feelings of worthlessness and suicidal ideation
So it's important to let them know that they're loved no matter what they may feel terrible about themselves and are wallowing in self loathing
Be sure to remind them that they matter to you
Hug them or hold their hand. If you can't find the words to express how much they mean to you
2. Tell them you're here for them
Depression is so terrifying and overwhelming then it can make a person feel more alone than they've ever felt in their whole lives
That's why it's important for them to have a strong support system
Don't let them suffer in silence
Support them as much as you can and let them know that they're not alone in their fight against depression and that you'll stand by
Their side no matter how bad things may get
3. Tell them it's okay to feel this way
Don't make the mistake of asking someone why they're depressed or what they have to be depressed about
Instead acknowledge their struggle. Let them know that it's okay to feel this way and that it's not their fault that they're depressed
Rather than invalidating their feelings in a misguided attempt to cheer them up. Be their safe space allow them to express themselves
freely without fear of judgement
4. Ask them what you can do to help
more often than not
depression drains a lot of our happiness and leaves us physically emotionally and mentally
Exhausted it would make a huge difference
If you could ask them what you could do to help
Offer to share their load without making them feel like they're a burden to you check in on them from time to time
Cook them meals or walk their dog for them
Small acts of kindness can make a world of difference to someone with depression
5. ask if they've talked to a therapist because of the stigma against mental illness many people feel ashamed about having to see a psychologist
however, according to the National Institute of Mental Health up to 80% of patients seeking treatment for depression start to see an improvement in as
Early as 4 to 6 weeks
Psychotherapy, and in certain cases medication is necessary to improve a person's chances of recovery
so one of the best things you can do for a loved one suffering from depression is to encourage them to seek help from a
mental health care professional
6. ask them if they need someone to talk to sometimes the best thing you can do for someone with depression is to just listen
Letting them talk through their feelings can do a lot of good. It may ease some of their emotional turmoil
Be sympathetic when they tell you what's bothering them and keep an open mind
Attentive listening shows compassion and it's good to refocus their attention and try to better understand the inner conflicts that they feel
And number 7. remind them that they can get better
Depression is very real and serious mental illness
But it's also highly treatable and chances of a successful recovery are very promising
So make sure that your loved one never loses hope in their fight against depression
There may be days when they feel like they've overcome it only to fall into another depressive episode
But don't give up on them and don't let them give up on themselves
With patience love and support things will get better
Never underestimate the power of a comforting word or gesture
saying something positive and supportive can inspire your loved one to keep fighting and give them hope for better days to come
If you found this video helpful
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The references and studies used in this video are added in the description below. Thanks for watching and we'll see you in our next video