Depression is a complex mental illness that is much more than short-term sadness. Helplessness, depression, lethargy, self-criticism, lack of initiative, withdrawal, feelings of hopelessness, sadness and guilt, decreased concentration, loss of satisfaction and interest, social isolation, low energy, change in appetite, and weight … symptoms of depression and their intensity varies from person to person.

The term depression is often used incorrectly to describe a momentary bad mood. You can often hear some people complaining that they are “depressed” just because they are sad about a certain event or just woke up exhausted and with low energy. Depression is much more serious than many people imagine. It is a condition that can not be overcome overnight and can not be overcome by encouraging pats on the back.

Depression affects every aspect of a person’s life, but it also causes suffering in those close to him. It is not at all easy to see how a close person loses interest in the things that made him happy before and how he lies reluctantly feeding on pessimistic thoughts. If your loved one is suffering from depression, your involvement in the healing process can be crucial to a speedy recovery. Here’s how you can help a depressed person

Accept depression as a serious illness and do not ignore it.

Depression does not go away on its own and you should accept it as a serious mental illness, not a temporary condition that can be cured by time. You should never act with the attitude “Do not worry … and I was depressed for a few days last year, so it passed” or “Come on, self-pity is enough, you are strong, it will pass, just do not think about it, time heals everything” .

Convince her that she needs professional help.

Many victims deny that they suffer from depression and refuse any professional help. In our area, a visit to a psychiatrist is accepted with great negativity, but you must strive. Remember that you are not a substitute for a psychiatrist. Explain to the person you want to help that they deserve to feel better and that depression needs to be treated by a professional.

Find out – the more you know, the more you can help.

It is very important to understand the symptoms of depression in order to have an idea of exactly what depressed people go through. Learn about the causes that lead to depression, as well as the different treatments.

Be on her side and do not judge / criticize her.

People suffering from depression are often too strict with themselves, so if you want to help, do not give constructive criticism and do not point out their mistakes. It can increase their self-critical thinking and reduce their self-esteem, which will only worsen their condition.

Listen to her, instead of overwhelming her with advice.

If the person suffering from depression decides to start an open conversation, it is your job to listen. Even if you hear the same words for the hundredth time, be her crying shoulder and show compassion. It is very important that she feels listened to and knows that her feelings are important to you. Do not give advice such as “Just smile” or “Think positive”. Hold her hand and just be there for her. Listening and showing understanding are a powerful tool in the healing process.

Maintain an optimistic attitude and do not endorse her pessimistic statements.

Pessimistic thoughts are a symptom of depression, and you must not agree with the negative views of the person next to you. Preserve the real picture and keep the hope alive that the situation will improve. Point out the positive things that are happening around her, because depressed people are prevented from seeing them for themselves. For the depressed person, the future is usually gloomy and empty. Therefore, talk about the positive side of life.

And most importantly, take care of yourself.
If you live with a depressed person, you can be completely preoccupied with caring for them, so you can neglect your own health. To be able to help, you must first be emotionally and mentally stable.