How I Became a Better Supporter for Friends Battling Depression
Enhancing depression support through empathy and action.
Let’s be real, depression is a nightmare.
It’s a complex mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide.
And let me tell you, if you’ve been down that road, you know it can turn you in to a human-shaped ghost and make every day feel like a slog through molasses.
Even the simplest things seem impossible.
That being said, people often ask me, “how can I help?” But when I’m in the thick of depression, I’m just as clueless as they are.
So, I figured I’d so a little research and create something that I can direct my loved ones to when they inevitably ask this question.
I invite you to keep this article handy if you ever get asked the same! And a big hello and thank you to anyone diving into this, seeking to be a better support system for their loved ones.
My goal for this article is to uncover and share effective ways to provide meaningful support, emphasizing empathy, communication, and self-care. So, let’s get into it.
Understanding Depression and its Impact
When it comes to offering genuine support, getting what depression truly is and how it hits people matters a lot.
Depression isn’t just a brief bout of feeling blue — it’s this intricate and often heavy mental state that hangs around for most of the day, almost every day, for at least two weeks (DepressionHurts.ca, 2021).
Imagine walking through life with a cloud of sadness and fatigue that just won’t lift.
And it doesn’t stop there — depression messes with your sleep, appetite, and energy levels, throwing even your relationships, work, and daily routines out of whack (DepressionHurts.ca, 2021).
But remember, depression isn’t a badge of weakness; seeking help is like a superpower on the path to recovery — at least that’s how it played out for me.
Now, let me share a slice of my own story.
For me, depression feels like, “hopelessness.”
It’s what I grapple with when one of those episodes’ hits.
All the things I listed before — they hit harder because I find myself tangled in a web of purposelessness, desperately trying to escape the vortex of emptiness inside me.
And taking care of myself? It’s like trying to water a plant in a rainstorm — futile.
The “hopelessness” vibe zaps away any trace of energy I’ve got.
The Power of Empathetic Communications
One of the most frustrating aspects of reaching out for help when I’m in a dark place is encountering what I like to call “Problem Solvers.”
While their intentions are good, they tend to offer solutions to problems I didn’t necessarily want them to solve.
To be honest, this usually leaves me feeling misunderstood, isolated, and like I’m a burden.
When it comes to supporting someone battling depression, there’s a powerful tool known as empathetic communication (Riess, 2017).
It’s not merely about having a chat or trying to fix their issues; it’s about genuinely delving into the emotions that often linger beneath the surface.
Empathetic communication serves as a bridge to truly connect with those navigating the roller coaster of depression, offering a safe haven for them to express their thoughts and feelings without fearing judgment.
By truly listening, displaying authentic care, and stepping into their shoes, we’re diving into the heart of genuine human connection (Riess, 2017).
It’s a reminder that sometimes, when you’re supporting someone through their journey with depression, offering a compassionate and empathetic ear can be the most impactful support you can provide (Riess, 2017).
Practical Ways to Provide Support
One thing I strive to provide in each of my article is practical, actionable advice based on research and my own experience.
When it comes to supporting someone navigating the challenging waters of depression, a little understanding and practical support can go a long way.
These are four practical ways that I have found to be helpful when supporting someone that’s struggling with depression.
1. Offer Encouragement
When you’re there for someone facing depression, your encouragement can make a real difference.
A few kind words can go a long way.
Let them know you believe in their strength to tackle challenges and remind them that they aren’t alone.
Depression often messes with self-worth, so acknowledging their efforts, achievements, and strengths can help counter those negative feelings.
Sending a quick heartfelt text can remind them that they have support.
Your words matter, and your belief in their resilience can be a light through difficult times(Pfeiffer et al., 2011).
2. Accompanying to Professional Help
When it comes to helping a friend through depression, lending a hand with professional help can be a game-changer.
Going with them to therapy sessions or doctor’s appointments shows that you’re in their corner, no matter what.
Sometimes, taking that step to get help can feel like climbing a mountain, and having a buddy by their side can make it feel less daunting.
Your presence might help them feel more at ease, making it easier for them to open up and get the support they need.
Plus, let’s face it — the whole healthcare system can be a maze, and having a friend who’s willing to navigate it with them is a huge relief.
Just remember, you’re not taking the place of a therapist or doctor, but your support can be a vital part of their journey toward feeling better.
My partner was the one that took me to my first therapy session and I’m so grateful that he did because I’m confident that I would have never taken that step without him.
3. Assisting with Daily Tasks
You know, when someone you care about is dealing with depression, even the simplest tasks can feel like fighting a dragon.
Offering to help out with everyday stuff — like cooking a meal, running errands, or tackling chores — can make a world if a difference.
Your practical help can give them a breather and free up mental space that’s probably all tangled up.
It’s a hands-on way to show you care and that you’re there to ease the load, even if it’s just a little.
And remember, you don’t need to be a superhero — even a small thing can make their day a bit brighter and their journey a bit smoother (Smith, 2023).
I can personally attest to the power of this.
Once, when I was in a particularly tough spot, a friend came over and washed my dishes without me asking.
It lifted a significant mental weight off my shoulders.
Over a decade later, I still think about how kind that gesture was.
4. Engaging in Enjoyable Activities
When someone you genuinely care about is navigating the fog of depression, even finding a speck of joy in the things they used to love can feel like an uphill hike.
Trust me, I’ve been there and know this struggle firsthand. Encouraging and diving into activities they once cherished can be a lifeline.
Whether it’s rewatching a favourite movie, taking a walk, or just hanging out, joining in these activities can serve as a welcomed distraction and a glint of positivity.
By sharing in something they find enjoyable, you’re not only giving their spirits a lift, but you’re also crafting good memories, reminding them they’re not alone.
Your being there and your openness to share in what brings them joy can hold a special kind of meaning, nudging them ahead on their path to feeling better (Smith, 2023).
Conclusion
Walking alongside someone battling depression is like navigating a labyrinth of shadows.
It’s tough for them, and let’s be honest, it’s not a walk in the park for anyone trying to help either.
But here’s the deal — armed with the right insights and a good dose of understanding, we can really make a difference.
By getting what depression truly feels like, using the power of empathetic communication, and rolling up our sleeves for some practical support, we can be those guiding lights amidst the darkness.
Remember, your words, your mere presence, and your willingness to roll up your sleeves can spark a change.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that while our support matters, it’s not a replacement for professional help.
We’re not here to be therapists or doctors — we’re here as allies, offering a hand to hold and a listening ear.
So, let’s work together to break down the stigma, build those bridges of connection, and be those solid support pillars.
When we tackle depression together, with a mix of empathy and a comforting presence, we’re making a world where healing isn’t just a dream, but something very real.
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Hi, my name is Chantal Kathleen and I write about mental health, wellness, and organization! If you found this article helpful I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments and if you want to see more like this be sure to follow my page! ❤️
References
DepressionHurts.ca. (2021, January 22). What is Depression? — DepressionHurts.ca. https://depressionhurts.ca/en/about/
Riess, H. (2017). The science of empathy. Journal of Patient Experience, 4(2), 74–77. https://doi.org/10.1177/2374373517699267
Pfeiffer, P., Heisler, M., Piette, J. D., Rogers, M. A., & Valenstein, M. (2011). Efficacy of peer support interventions for depression: a meta-analysis. General Hospital Psychiatry, 33(1), 29–36. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2010.10.002
Smith, M., MA. (2023). Helping Someone with Depression. HelpGuide.org. https://www.helpguide.org/articles/depression/helping-someone-with-depression.htm
