What to Do if Someone You Love is Depressed

Depression is more common than most realize. A recent survey from Gallup indicates that depression rates are higher than ever, with roughly 29 percent of American adults receiving a diagnosis.

Watching someone you love battle depression can be heartbreaking. The condition can change someone's entire being, creating feelings of hopelessness. But you don't have to stand back and watch your loved one suffer. There are many things you can do to provide help and support.

Speak Up

One of the best things you can do is bring up your concerns. Of course, it's important to leave judgment at the door. But speaking up can pave the way to depression treatment.

Many people with depression suffer in silence, not even realizing there's a problem. Bringing up your concerns could help them see it's time to seek professional help.

Note the signs and have an open conversation. Be supportive without being judgmental and be the shoulder they need to lean on.

Help Them Find Treatment

After speaking up, you should assist them in getting depression treatment. While we've come a long way about our social ideologies about mental health, there's still a stigma surrounding treatment. Having support makes a difference.

Plus, your assistance can ensure your loved one gets the help they need. Depression can make people put things off, even something as important as getting help. Be there when they search for providers and offer to schedule appointments. You can even drive them to their appointment and stay by their side to show your support.

Be Alert

Mental health care providers treat depression in many ways. There's no end-all-be-all option, so it often involves trial and error. One way to help someone is to be alert as they navigate treatment.

Look for the signs that the treatment is working. Pay attention to the person's demeanor and mood. See if they're sleeping better or having more moments of calm.

Conversely, it would help if you also looked for signs that treatment isn't working. Worsening symptoms can be dangerous, so you should speak up and consider voicing your concerns to the provider they're working with.

Read a similar article about mental health treatment here at this page.