Need Ways To Help A Friend With Depression?
7th March 2012 by Depressed No CommentsGood friends are an important part of life. More than just companionship, they also share each others’ interests, help celebrate life’s triumphs and life’s lows. But how do you handle it when your friend is clinically depressed?
Clinical depression is much worse than just a bad day or experiencing loss like a breakup or lay off from a job. Similar events may be difficult, but most tend to bound back and keep up their optimism.
When you have a friend with depression, his or her overall outlook on life is sad or bleak over a long period of time, despite the circumstances. Your friend may lose their interest in activities or stop wanting to hang out, and may not be able to be a true friend or offer support to you.
If he or she keeps canceling on plans or seems to be acting selfish, your first reaction may be to get irritated or angry. Instead, try to stay calm and ask your friend what is wrong. These signs listed above could mean your friend is depressed, so watch out for them.
Don’t be surprised if your friend wants to talk to you about depression; it may also feel overwhelming. Remember that it’s not your responsibility to fix the depression or to give advice. You’ll be acting as a great friend just by being empathetic and by simply listening.But it’s vital to remember that being clinically depressed is not a condition someone can “snap out of” or get over using positive thinking. If left untreated, depression can have serious consequences including suicide and brain damage.
She might not want to discuss depression, or may be too embarrassed to admit she has a problem. In any case, let your friend know that it’s perfectly fine to get professional help. Offer your help by seeking out qualified providers near your friend; you could also help by scheduling appointments or even driving him or her to the first appointment. If you offer this support, follow through.
While only your friend can choose to make changes, being a supportive influence in their life can give the encouragement she or he needs to get help.
For more information on the above, plus more depression articles, check out Lifescript.com.
The information contained in this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not, nor is it ever intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice or professional recommendations, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician(s) or other qualified healthcare provider(s).
