Depression is a mood disorder that causes a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. It affects how you feel, think and behave and can lead to a variety of emotional and physical problems. Depression drains a person’s energy, optimism, and motivation.
In recent times, with the pandemic hitting India more than a year back, India going into lockdown multiple times, and with cases exponentially increasing everyday, the situation has not been easy for anyone. Recent studies show that over 43% of Indians currently suffer from depression.
What are some signs of depression?
Depression is a very complex emotional disorder that should not be underestimated. Some signs could include:
Hopeless outlook
Loss of interest in hobbies
Fatigue and insomnia
Mood swings
Reduced appetite
Suicidal thoughts
Having trouble with remembering things
Having trouble with concentrating
How can you help?
While the most optimal solution would be to seek professional help. However, there are ways that you yourself can help:
1) Show Empathy
Put yourself in your friend’s shoes in a nonjudgmental way. Think about how you would feel if you were coping with symptoms of depression and how you would want friends to react.
Treat them with empathy, not sympathy. As much as you may want to, you can’t rescue someone from depression nor fix the problem for them. While you can offer love and support, ultimately recovery is in the hands of the depressed person. Do not feel pity for them, rather try and understand what they are going through.
Reassure them using phrases like “That sounds hard," "I’m sorry you are going through this,” “I’m always here for you.” However, avoid offering advice until asked.
2) Be patient
Depression symptoms do improve with treatment, but it can take time. Finding the best treatment may require trying more than one type of medication or treatment approach. It is a slow process that involves some trial and error. They may have to try a few different counseling approaches or medications before they find one that helps their symptoms.
In the meantime, they’ll probably have some good days and some bad days. Avoid assuming a good day means they’re “cured,” and try not to get frustrated if a string of bad days makes it seem like your friend will never improve.
3) Practice Assertive Communication
Rather than making depression taboo, talk openly with your friend about your concerns. Take ownership of your feelings and concerns and communicate them without finger-pointing.
Listen and provide your friend with unconditional emotional support. Speak using 'I' sentences "I'm concerned", "I'm here for you" and avoid using sentences like "You don't seem like yourself" or ‘You haven’t been hanging out as much as you usually do.’ They can create defensiveness in the person receiving the message.
4.Take care of yourself
Supporting someone with depression isn't easy. Ask other relatives or friends to help, and take steps to prevent becoming frustrated or burned out. Find your own time for hobbies, physical activity, friends and spiritual renewal. You won’t do your friend or family member any good if you collapse under the pressure of trying to help. When your own needs are taken care of, you’ll have the energy you need to lend a helping hand.
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