Sadness, withdrawal from social environment, listlessness, neglect of hobbies and friends, and constant negative thoughts. These can all be signs of depression. Noticing these signs in a loved one can be unsettling. Questions may arise such as: Did I do something wrong? Or does he/she loves me anymore? But what is the best way to react? Leave them alone? Give some advice? Drag to a doctor? One can feel very insecure here as a relative.
What can you do?
Accept depression as an illness
Although the topic of depression is becoming more and more public, many people still know very little about this disease. Everything psychological is often blanked out and not perceived. As a family member, educate yourself about the disease. For this purpose, there are counseling centers or now also “soulhelper”, where you as a relative can also take advantage of a counseling session to obtain all the necessary information on how you can best help your relative.
Seek for conversation
Depressed people are often no longer able to clearly recognize their condition. Once you’ve learned about treatment options, seek discussion with your loved one. Explain to him your perception such as I noticed that you are not feeling well. I would love to help you get better. Sometimes it already helps the people concerned that someone takes them seriously.
Search for suitable therapy
Suggest to your relative that you make an appointment for him or help him to do so. But also accept rejection. The suffering pressure is individual for everyone and you should accept this.
Show patience and understanding
Many depressed people complain, feel despair and seem without hope. They refuse help and withdraw completely. Show patience and explain that depression is a condition that can be treated well. Avoid phrases like “Get a grip.” or “We’ve watched long enough now.” This can increase guilt in a depressed person and they go into even more withdrawal.
Do not overstrain yourself
Often, depression extends for months before the decision is made to seek help. This can bring you as a family member to your own limits of resilience. Don’t forget yourself. Cultivate your circle of friends, treat yourself more often or recharge your batteries in nature.
Involve the family or circle of friends
Communicate honestly and transparently about the problem and what you perceive. Ask for help – this is how you take the shame out of the problem.
Bottom line: just be there. Knowing someone on your side who stands by you is priceless.
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