What to do if someone you love is depressed
It can be difficult to be around a person who is depressed. You may feel
helpless and sometimes angry, particularly if the person is irritable and
doesn't respond when you reach out. Keep reminding yourself that the person
is ill and doesn't mean to be hurtful or unresponsive.
You can't relieve clinical depression with love alone any more than you can
cure heart disease or diabetes with just love. People who are depressed need
professional help, and some require medication.
On the other hand, social support improves treatment results in many serious
illnesses, including depression. Reach out to your depressed
friend/partner/family member so that he or she knows that you care. Call.
Send affectionate notes. Invite the person to dinner, movies, ball games,
parties, and other events. But keep your expectations low. Even if she/he
doesn’t respond, you can be sure that she/he appreciates your attempts.
For more information:
Top of Page
|
Q & A
What is clinical
depression?
Is clinical depression
treatable?
Depression and suicide
Tips for handling depression
What to do if someone you love is depressed
Who is at risk for clinical depression?
Depression screening questionnaires
Other types of emotional and mental health problems
|
