For patients with depression, the help of loved ones is very important. And how this help is provided will determine the success in recovery. How to help the patient and not aggravate the condition?
With depression, a person perceives the world and himself very painfully. A person with such a disease cannot be considered lazy. The patient simply cannot take care of himself, the house, and rejoice. In addition to all this, negative emotions are activated. A person sees only the bad in himself and he sees this bad through a microscope. Therefore, incorrectly chosen words of relatives can worsen the condition.
What shouldn't be said
You should never say the following:
• “Some have more serious problems and don't get depressed.” Comparison with the person who successfully overcomes difficulties only exacerbates the patient's sense of worthlessness.
• "I understand you, I also once had depression and I coped." Usually, a person who says such words understands depression as the usual temporary despondency. Until the end, such an interlocutor does not understand that this is a disease, as well as its mechanisms of action.
• "You are too mired in your illness, distract yourself." Man already blames himself for everything. Such words can simply finish off.
How can you help
1. Assure the patient that he is needed, valuable, that he has excellent qualities. This must be done sincerely.
2. It is important to be a good listener. You cannot interrupt the patient.
3. It is very difficult for a person with depression to leave his home, and movement and fresh air are essential. Therefore, help the patient get together, take a walk with him.
4. Take to the doctor.
5. Learn more about this disease. This knowledge will help to provide the patient with practical help and do it with real compassion.
6. Help the person eat right. This help can be cooking, going for groceries.
To be a true friend and support for the patient, you need to remember that depression is a disease, not blues or laziness. A depressed person blames himself for everything, so there is no need to shame him additionally.
You need to direct your energy to practical help and show that you understand that this is a disease, and not a person's fault. Fight with the person and be a good listener. You can't leave a depressed person alone for a long time. Helping to see a psychotherapist on time can play a very important role in a person's recovery.
