Someone experiencing depression might not realize it at first. You might think you are just sad or stressed. Even those aware may feel ashamed to admit and seek help. That’s why support from friends and family matters a lot. It won’t cure depression, but it can make someone feel less alone while they figure out what they need.
How do I know if someone is depressed and not just having a bad day?
We all feel sad sometimes, but that doesn’t mean we have depression. Sadness is the emotion we feel when things go unexpectedly. While sadness may last a few days, you can still go about your daily activities.
The difference between sadness and depression is that depression is a more intense sadness. Signs of depression include sadness, anxiety, anger, guilt and hopelessness. This affects your ability to do normal activities you used to enjoy and makes it relatively hard to maintain relationships. You may sleep too much or have difficulty sleeping, overeat or lose interest in food, and may have self-harming thoughts.
That said, remember not everyone with depression will experience all the symptoms. However, sadness lasting more than two weeks could be a sign of depression, and seeking treatment from the mental health service providers at Davis Behavioral Health can help.
What are some common misconceptions about depression that I should be aware of?
There are many myths about depression that discourage people from seeking help and those around them from offering the right support. Understanding depression and debunking these myths ensures the depressed person gets the proper support.
For instance, many people believe depression is a temporary phase and they can “snap out of it” if they want. The truth is that while sadness is a symptom of depression, it’s not the same as feeling down. It’s a complex mental health condition that often requires professional help, such as therapy and/or medication.
Some believe depression cannot be treated, while others think it can only be treated with medication. The truth is that depression is treatable. Your doctor will recommend the best course of treatment depending on the severity of symptoms, your individual needs and preferences, and your medical history. Treatment options can include counseling, psychological intervention or lifestyle changes.
What are some practical ways I can offer support?
Caring for someone with depression can sometimes feel like you are walking on eggshells. Anything you say could trigger them. This makes encouraging help a challenge. Here are some practical ways to support someone with depression:
- Check in regularly. A simple “Hey, how are you today?” can go a long way.
- Offer to help with everyday stuff. Cook a meal for your loved one, run an errand or help walk their dog.
- Don’t push them to “cheer up” or “be productive.” Let them set the pace.
- Respect their space. Sometimes, they need time alone. That’s okay—just don’t disappear entirely.
- Encourage them to seek treatment or join a support group. Find your friend or family member online support if they don’t want to go in person.
- Urge to continue with treatment. This could be reminding your loved one to take prescriptions and keep appointments.
Are there specific resources or organizations I can point them (or myself) to?
Many organizations offer mental health help to people with depression and their caregivers. Most can connect you to mental health support groups, professionals and other essential information. They include:
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
- Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA)
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
- American Psychological Association (APA)
If your loved one has tried therapy or medication without success, TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation) is worth looking into. It’s an FDA-approved, noninvasive treatment that uses magnetic pulses to stimulate parts of the brain involved in mood regulation. You can help by researching local clinics or offering to go with them for a consultation.
How can I encourage them to seek professional help without being pushy?
You want to help, but you can’t force it. The best thing to do is to make the idea feel safe and manageable. Offer practical support, such as finding resources or attending appointments.
Remember to acknowledge their feelings while reminding them that professional help can be effective. For instance, say, “You don’t have to go through this alone. Have you thought about talking to a therapist?” If they are open to the idea, contact the mental health service providers at Davis Behavioral Health.
Conclusion
Helping someone with depression is challenging, but it’s the right thing to do. You don’t have to be a therapist; you just need to care enough to show up, listen and stay consistent. Be honest. Be kind. Offer help, not pressure. And remind them they don’t have to fight this thing alone.