Having a friend with whom you can share your joy and laughter is one of the best things you can have in life. Even when faced with life’s toughest challenges, a bond can remain unbreakable. All it takes is understanding and unwavering support to nurture relationships that stand the test of time.
Depression, a widely misunderstood and stigmatized condition, is a profound disorder that impacts one’s thoughts, emotions, and ability to function in daily life. Overcoming this silent battle requires genuine compassion, patience, and understanding as it cannot be dismissed overnight.
Read on to learn more about the practical ways you can support a friend going through depression.
What Is Depression?
Depression is more than just the feeling of sadness or being down. It is a complex, persistent mood of sadness and loss of interest characterized by deep hopelessness and despair. This is also known as major depressive disorder or clinical depression, and it affects how you feel, think, and behave, as well as causing emotional and physical problems. Navigating the challenges of helping a friend who is suffering from depression is a journey that involves empathy, patience, and a firm commitment to understanding.
5 Ways To Support a Friend with Depression
In our fast-paced world, where we learn that our mental health is one of our biggest priorities, being there for a friend with depression is essential. Being a beacon of hope can make a big difference in their lives. Here are five ways to provide support and offer meaningful assistance to friends who are in need.
Avoid Invalidating Their Experience
One of the most significant steps to take in supporting your friend with depression is never to invalidate their experience and emotions. Refrain from passing judgment or offering simplistic solutions; they do not need that. Pieces of Advice like “just be positive” or “get over it” will not help; instead, offer empathy and understanding to them. This can help create an environment where your friend feels accepted and supported.
Lend An Ear
Some people with depression tend to isolate themselves from others, thinking no one is ready to hear them. Actively listening is a powerful way to support them because sometimes they just need someone prepared to listen to them without judgment. Listening to them isn’t as complicated as it seems; you don’t have to give advice and try to fix their problems; just simply listen to what they’re going through. This creates a safe space for them to express their thoughts and feelings.
Stay in Touch
We’ve mentioned that people with depression tend to isolate themselves and reduce their ability to get things done. This can mean all their emails, text messages, or even invites from the group can pile up and be ignored. Maintaining a connection can contribute to the recovery of your friend; this can provide them with emotional support and sometimes even prevent suicidal thoughts. Let them know you always think of them and would love to be with them. Your presence can contribute to their journey of healing and recovery.
Bring Over a Fur Baby
A “fur baby” or a pet, such as a dog, cat, or any other animal considered a pet, can provide emotional support and companionship. According to research, having a pet in your home can improve your mental health and produce feel-good neurochemicals when you cuddle with them. Pets offer unconditional love without asking for anything in return; they do not judge or criticize you, no matter what you are going through.
The companionship a pet provides can combat the feeling of isolation and provide a distraction from negative thoughts. Engaging with them offers your friend a source of comfort and support. However, before bringing a pet to a friend’s house to evaluate their capabilities and lifestyle, ensure they can supply the essential items a pet needs.
Help Them Find Support (If they’re ready)
While you, as their friend, provide them invaluable emotional support, it is still best to help them find professional care and support from the experts. But, before taking any action to find them help, you should ensure they are ready for that step. Recognizing that mental health experts have the knowledge and experience to manage the complexity of depression emphasizes the need for comprehensive therapy. Still, be with them once your friend goes to treatment, and encourage them to go through with it.
Discover The Care You Deserve at Milestone Health & Wellness
Depression affects individuals from all walks of life. It is a noble and compassionate endeavor to support a friend who suffers from depression. At Milestone Health and Wellness, the right help and care you deserve is a step away from helping the patients lead healthy and happy lives.
Contact us us today.