Dealing with Depression Tip #1

Helping Your Loved Ones Cope with Depression

Depression is a complicated condition that can affect most of us at some point in our lives.  Many forms of depression are due to a chemical imbalance in the brain.  When someone you love is depressed, you cannot take responsibility for fixing it. You can only offer to help.  Avoid saying things like: “You can snap out of it.”, “You have so much to live for, stop acting crazy.”, “Take time to reevaluate, it’ll be OK, don’t worry.”, or “What’s wrong with you? It’s all in your head.”

Here are some things you can say to help!

• “I know depression is a real illness and that is what is causing you to think and feel this way.”
• “You may not believe it, but the way you are feeling now will change.”
• “I’m here for you. Tell me what I can do to help you.”
• “When you feel like giving up, please hold on for as long as you are able.”
• “You are important to me. Your life is important to me. Together we will get through this.”

If a person is threatening suicide, don’t try to manage it by yourself. Call a mental health professional or go the nearest emergency room as soon as possible.

Visit our online Health Encyclopedia for helpful information about Depression.

Posted: January 18, 2007