Depression can strike anyone. Unfortunately, there are still many people who do not understand the dangers of depression being left alone. There is still a stigma attached to mental health, one of which is the stigma that prevents many people from being open about depression.
If you have a friend who is experiencing depression, you may feel confused about how to deal with it. Summarizing from Intrepid Mental Health, here are some ways you can help friends who are depressed. Come on, see!
Self Education
The first thing you have to do if you want to help a friend who is depressed is learn about the depression that your friend is experiencing. It can be very difficult to feel empathy for someone who is depressed if you have never experienced it. However, you can equip yourself by understanding depression and its causes.
There are many reliable sources for learning about mental health, including depression. So, do your research first so that you are ready to provide help and support to them.
Don't Underestimate
Depression is not something that a person can easily get rid of. When you talk to them, never take this condition lightly. Depression is a serious illness. You can't help them calm down and just forget about it.
Be a Good Listener
When someone is depressed, they feel very isolated. Maybe they feel like they don't have anyone to talk to. You can help them be good listeners and let them do the talking first.
Persuade Them for Professional Help
There are some conditions where a person who is depressed needs professional help, it may also need medication to relieve the condition. Try to make them understand that depression is treatable and persuade them to seek professional help.
Ready to Act in an Emergency
If you have concerns that your friend may be endangering himself or herself, you should act immediately by calling emergency services. Maybe they will resent you for a while because they feel you have meddled in their affairs. But when their condition improves, they will thank you for preventing their actions.
Be patient
Dealing with a friend who is depressed is not easy. This requires you to be more patient in dealing with it. Don't leave them when they need help.
Depression is a very difficult thing to deal with, either for the person experiencing it or those closest to them. The best thing you can do for a friend who is depressed is to be the best support system.