FAMILY AND FRIENDS

Any prolonged change in someone’s behaviour and mood is a cause for concern, and may indicate that the person is becoming depressed.

If a family member of friend is affected by depression then you are probably experiencing a number of concerns, emotions and questions about the condition. Having the right information can help the individual and provide you and your family the coping skills in order to deal effectively with the situation.

When a loved one is suffering from depression you can offer help and support in a variety of ways.

Learn about depression, including recognising symptoms

Learning about depression will help you to understand how your family member or friend is feeling, and why they are behaving the way they are. Learning to recognise the symptoms of depression means that you may be able to encourage them to seek help and provide support in the early stages of the episode. This is likely to limit the duration and severity of the depression that they experience and prevent unnecessary suffering.

Make sure they get the help they need

The very nature of depression can interfere with a person’s ability to get help. You might need to encourage the person to see their doctor, access treatment and services, and support them to carry on with it.

Helping the person who is depressed

You can listen and offer emotional support without giving advice or judging.   You can provide them with reassurance that they will get well.  If they are ready you could gently encourage them to engage in self-help activities - maybe by helping with arrangements or accompanying them.

Looking after yourself

Supporting someone who is experiencing depression can be stressful for the carer. Dealing with all the issues can be emotionally draining and you can feel helpless at times.  It is particularly important not to neglect your own mental health during this time. You cannot help your loved one if you are feeling unwell.