Dealing with a Family Member Who Has Depression
Feeling overwhelmed, stressed and helpless? Helping someone who is depressed can leave you feeling just as depleted and worried.
Although every person approach depression differently, it’s okay to acknowledge that dealing with depression in the family is difficult. If you are the person who must provide support and structure, it’s important to take care of your own health and wellbeing.
Here are a few tips that can help you and your loved one on the road to recovery and hope.
Common signs of depression
- Sadness, tears, a sense of helplessness.
- Irrational behaviour, impatience, frustration
- Slowed speech, thinking or action
- Loss of enjoyment or interest in everyday activities
- Lack of energy and fatigue
- Extreme weight gain or weight loss
- Agitation, restlessness, or anxiety
- Feelings of guilt or worthlessness
- Difficulty with memory, concentration, decision-making and reasoning
- Regularly talking about death, suicidal thoughts/attempts
Many depressed people often have symptoms that are severe enough to interfere with normal routines, including work, relationships and social interactions. Others could experience general feelings of unhappiness without understanding why. With children and teenagers, watch for signs of irritation and extreme mood swings.
Helping a family member who has depression
Learn more about mood disorders
It’s important to remember that depression is a challenging minefield. Don’t rush in, assuming that you are going to “cure” your loved one. Depression is a many-headed beast and millions of people live with it for years. What you can do is learn as much as possible about mood disorders to better understand their mindset. You'll feel more in control of the situation and have more patience, knowing what you must contend with.
Help with their treatment
A person with depression will need help to take their medication, keep up with therapy sessions, or even just manage normal tasks. You may need to assist them in finding a mental health provider or making an appointment. Help them get treatment sooner rather than later by suggesting that you can take care of these things for them. Give them gentle reminders to eat on time, take their meds and get some daily exercise.
Remind them of their strengths
Depression can cause unpleasant thoughts; many people feel they’re useless or not lovable. They may feel despondent about their work or role within their family. Reminding them of their strengths is one way to encourage their recovery. Talk about moments in their life when they showed bravery, courage, compassion and resilience. Reminisce with pictures of past successes or achievements to boost their confidence and motivate their recovery.
Create enjoyable moments
Sharing a good laugh isn’t just fun, it’s also beneficial to our health! Happy, enjoyable moments and experiences can strengthen bonds, create levity and release feel-good hormones that are good to alleviate stress and boost the immune system.
Be patient!
Treatment for depression does help with symptoms, but it might take time. Trying several different medications or therapy methods may be necessary to find the most effective one. After starting medication, symptoms may quickly get better for some people. Others will need more time. It’s a journey, so try to be patient and compassionate.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, and usage of any medication.