lifeafterdepression

Perhaps you are not struggling with depression yourself, but you know someone who is. Being the friend of a severely depressed person can be very difficult, scary, and trying. Many times the sick individual is unwilling to seek treatment, and you often don’t know what to do.

First, find little ways you can help your depressed friend. Be there to listen when she needs to talk, even if she makes no sense. Do not try to rationalize with her, because it will do no good. Don’t remind her how good her life is and tell her to look on the “bright side,” because she honestly cannot do this right now.

If you can, help out around the house. A depressed person is not able to take care of the very basic tasks that need to get done. This is not laziness, but is due to the illness.

If your depressed friend talks about suicide, listen! This is a serious thing and you need the help of a professional. Do not overlook these comments as wasted threats or attempts to get attention. Many depressed individuals do commit suicide, and getting professional help can stop this from happening.

 Finally, encourage your friend to seek help, and make sure she is following the treatments prescribed. Remember, depression is a medical condition and needs to be treated medically. You can provide the support necessary, but the medication will bring about the real change, so make sure that your friend is getting help.

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