Helping someone else

You can help people experiencing depression, and in doing so you may even build a closer and more satisfying relationship with them. Remember though, that caring for someone with depression can be very frustrating and can also make you feel depressed. You may need support at times, too.

The Depression Alliance offers information, support and understanding for people who are concerned about, or caring for, someone with depression.

Eight ways you can help someone with depression:

  • Remember that they cannot help being affected by depression.
  • Encourage them to talk and listen to what they are saying.
  • Let them know that you care about them.
  • Stay in contact with them. Send a card, give them a ring, visit them in their home. Remember that depression can be a very isolating experience.
  • Help them to feel good about themselves by praising daily achievements.
  • Encourage them to help themselves by adopting self-help techniques.
  • Find out about support services available to them and to you (self-help groups, out of hours emergency support, helplines, etc). Put them in touch with Depression Alliance.
  • Encourage them to visit their doctor, and ensure that they take any prescribed medication as directed.

If they are talking about or have attempted suicide:

Suicidal thinking is common in depression. Don't be afraid to ask them if they are suicidal, and try to reassure them that feeling or thinking the future is hopeless does not make it so in reality.

If they have suicidal intentions, of have attempted suicide, call in other people (a GP, emergency services, social services) to help them and you with the situation. You can also contact The Samaritans on +44 (0)8457 90 90 90.

Reassure them that their life is important to you and to many other people, and that they will feel better once they receive appropriate treatment. However hard it may seem to look after a person who is suicidal, the fact that you are showing you care will have a positive impact.

Contacts

The contacts database contains details of organisations that may be able to offer information or assistance on this issue.
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Based on information kindly provided by the Depression Alliance - www.depressionalliance.org