Depression, a disabling and isolating disorder, can jeopardize relationships if not managed well. A person living with a depressed individual may feel abandoned and deprived and, in turn, take an indifferent approach. Sometimes he or she may feel like walking on the eggshells due to the depressed person’s attitude and reaction. However, it is important to understand that with a little care and a little effort, the relationship can be saved. Here are some steps that can be taken to support a depressed person:

• Trying to be there with them: Depression can be distressing for depressed people and their loved ones. However, one can still provide support by holding hands, reassuring that everything will be fine through the eyes or by gently massaging the back. You can also say comforting words like “You are not alone in this”, “We will find a way together” or “You are so important to me.”
• Try small loving gestures: Some people are not very comfortable with emotional expressions. They can still extend their support by trying gestures like preparing a lunch for the one who is depressed, leaving a note of affection or love in the lunch box, texting them after regular intervals, helping them do the laundry, shopping for groceries. . or with them, accompanying them on a walk, etc.
• Avoid judging or criticizing: It can be very tempting to tell a depressed person that they are overreacting or have no perspective; however, these words can damage a person’s self-esteem. Therefore, they should be avoided. Depression is a serious mental disorder that cannot be overcome with a change in perspective or by developing strong willpower. It is important for a friend or loved one to validate the feelings and emotions of the depressed person so that the latter can think about moving on.
• Paying attention to your self-care: Depressed people often find it difficult to pay attention to their self-care. They may not get out of bed all day, skip meals, not shower for days, etc. This is the time when a friend or loved one can help you make the bed, eat something warm and nutritious, take a shower, exercise, and meditate.
• Reward them instead of punishing them: Threatening a depressed person by saying things like: “If you don’t take care of yourself, have dinner, sleep on time, I will end this relationship” is a ruthless way of telling them that it is horrible. Instead, one should use statements that are both rewarding and encouraging at the same time such as “Oh! You got up early, are we going to run?” or “Wow, you cooked dinner, should I help with the dishes?”
• Encouraging them to challenge their negative thought processes: Depressed people have serious negative thought patterns. It is important that a friend or loved one helps you challenge these thoughts empirically. For example, if they say, “I am worth nothing” or “I am horrible,” one should ask politely what makes them think that way, and this conversation should be helpful in breaking negative patterns.

Depression is curable

Depression can be treated and the power of treatment should never be challenged. Although self-help and support systems can help alleviate symptoms, none can be as helpful as therapy as cognitive behavior therapy and medication. Therefore, the depressed must be helped to seek treatment.