How to support someone when their depression sets in
To start, I want to share with you some of the best & most beautiful things to tell someone with depression. These words are from @RealDepressionProject. If you want to support someone who is going through a depressive episode, but don’t know what to say? I get it & I’ll help you. Below are some sentences and phrases you can use as a starting point to drive the conversation.
“I love you so much–even on your darkest days I am so grateful to have you in my life. Please never think you’re a burden to me, you are so far from it.”
“You are so much more than your mind is telling you–I see you for the beautiful person you are. Just because you can’t see that in the moment doesn’t mean it isn’t true. It just means depression’s lies are stronger than usual.”
“Don’t think yo have to try and be anything else for me. It’s okay to not be okay–you don’t have to be the “happy” and “fun” one all the time. You are enough just as you are.”
“You have helped me so much over the years–please son’t feel guilty for receiving the same support during this difficult period. We are in this together.”
“I’m proud of you for still being her. I know it’s not easy fighting through the painful symptoms of depression, you’re doing an amazing job.”
You can use these exact words, or use them as a starting point. I hope this helps:)
Here are some things you can do as a friend to support a loved one suffering from a mental illness:
Make a point to reach out
Connect your loved one with social support
Encourage professional help
Be supportive of healthy habits
Just listening can help
Recognize that depression is an illness
Take any mention of suicide seriously
Make time for self-care…spa day?
Tell them how important and valuable they are to you, and send them positive daily reminders
Let them know you are there form them always
Tell them how proud of you they are for getting through this
Affirm their strength–“your struggle isn’t a sign of weakness, it’s a sign you’ve been strong for too long”
Don’t take it personally if they want to be alone
Do a kind small gesture–maybe bring them a coffee, or their favorite cookie
Offer to sit with them–even if you don’t talk, this reaffirms that they feel support from loved ones
A friendly reminder–You are not responsible for curing or fixing your friend. Your love and support are so valuable to their healing process. It is unfair to yourself to take responsibility for another person’s depression or their recovery.
