Table of contents:
- 1. Find out more about depression
- 2. Listen curhatan depressed friend
- 3. Don't cut off communication
- 4. Invite friends to seek help
- 5. Support the treatment that is being carried out
Depression is not just a moment of anxiety or sadness, but a mental disorder that needs special treatment. Unfortunately, not everyone knows how to deal with a depressed friend. This ignorance ultimately makes depressed people feel alone and do not get support from those closest to them. Moreover, people who are depressed also do not always clearly demonstrate that they are depressed. They often act normal in front of large crowds.
Then, what should you do if you find out that a relative or friend of yours is experiencing depression? Here are some things you can do to help a depressed friend.
1. Find out more about depression
It's a good idea to research mental issues, especially depression, to help you figure out what your friend is going through. Studying depression will help you figure out what you can and shouldn't do when dealing with a depressed friend.
2. Listen curhatan depressed friend
The simple thing you can do is listen to a depressed friend. Maybe you will think that the problems they face are not too serious. However, do not ever say, "How could you just be upset?" or, "You just go too far,".
This is because people who are depressed have a different psychological condition from healthy people. They lose the ability to think clearly, make decisions, and be positive. So saying things like that instead of whipping up a depressed friend, it just makes him worse off.
You just need to be quiet and listen to her every word while giving support through a hug, hand holding, or hug. You can offer words like, "No matter what, I'm here," or, "It must be hard, right?" This will make them feel heard, supported, and not alone in dealing with life's problems.
3. Don't cut off communication
People who are experiencing depression tend to withdraw from their environment. They prefer solitude to silence. For that, you need to maintain your communication with your friend.
Because of simple text messages like, "You're doing well, right?" or, "I play to your place, OK?" could make their mood swings even better. Your friend will remember that there are people who sincerely think about and care about them.
4. Invite friends to seek help
It is not easy to ask someone who is experiencing depression to seek help. For example, by going to a psychologist or mental health specialist. They will assume that they are okay and just need some time alone.
In any case, you need to convince them that it doesn't hurt to consult a psychologist or doctor for the right treatment. Tell them that depression is a health problem, and ignoring it will not make it better.
If necessary, you should guide a depressed friend to seek medical help yourself. Especially if your friend has shown signs of serious depression such as drastic weight loss, self-harm, and thoughts of ending his life.
5. Support the treatment that is being carried out
After consulting a doctor, usually, people who are depressed will be given medication and / or therapy. For that, you can help them to regularly run the treatment. Among other things, by making sure that prescribed medicines are available, assisting them in carrying out therapy, recommending lifestyle changes, and encouraging them to do routine check-up to the doctor.
