I loved James Bishop’s suggestions of ways to support someone struggling with depression. You can’t go wrong if you follow his directions. Here’s four ways to to address the topic of depression with loved ones.
1. Be On Their Side
The depressed person will often be defensive, so an accusatory tone isn’t helpful. Instead, try to convey a sense of understanding. It isn’t helpful to say “Why can’t you just get out of bed?” Instead try, “You seem to have trouble getting out of bed in the mornings. What can I do to help you in this area?”
The person may have lost perspective on how big a problem this actually is. They will find it hard to hear that what is insurmountable for them is actually not such a big deal. It is unhelpful to say, “What’s your problem? You’re upset about nothing.” Instead try “You seem to be finding this issue a big deal at the moment. Can we solve it together?”
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Site last updated: 25 May 2013
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This article was helpful, sensitive and insightful. I definitely want to fix this for my sweet boy…but can not. I needed to read this, it helped me to remember to take care of myself, like in the air plane, put on your mask first, so you can be available to help others.