ADVERTISEMENT

What to do when a loved one suffers from depression

Dealing with situations where a loved one suffers from depression, you've got to be patient and understanding.

In the past, this condition was something that we Nigerians did not acknowledge publicly and if you did have the courage to say something about it, you would get a response like:

“African people don’t suffer from this oyinbo disease”.

“Only white people get depressed”

ADVERTISEMENT

Depression is a disorder that affects moods negatively. This disorder could influence how you act, think and even your day-to-day life. Major depression episodes could lead to very consequential actions from the depressed party like self-harming, unprotected sex and even suicide. It is a feeling of sadness.

While you may not be depressed, there maybe someone in your life who is. When a loved one is suffering from this condition, it maybe frustrating and hard to deal with for you. Here’s what to do in such a situation:

1. Look for the signs

Some people cover up their moods well so it maybe difficult to know how they’re feeling but the signs will always be there.

ADVERTISEMENT

Some of the signs of depression include pessimism, self doubt, fatigue, changes in weight, they stop going out or they excuse themselves from social functions, they abuse alcohol and drugs, they have trouble sleeping, etc.

2. Be there for them

Spend time with them - go to lunch, plan an outdoor activity. If you can’t call or text him/her.

3. Talk

Talk to the affected individual. They maybe finding it to open up about how they feel so you need to make them know you understand what they are going through. Be gentle and just listen. Whatever you do, do not tell them their feelings are not important or they should snap out of it. Don’t ever shame them for how they feel.

ADVERTISEMENT

4. Encourage them to get therapy

There are treatments for depression. Encourage this loved one to get help from a professional. Treatments include support groups, psychotherapy and even drugs (antidepressants).

5. Be patient

Depression doesn’t go away in just one day or one therapy session. Be patient and compassionate - dealing with a loved one who’s depressed requires a lot of effort. Sometimes their emotions can be overwhelming especially when you don’t know what to do.

ADVERTISEMENT

Remember to also take care of yourself (and your emotional health).

JOIN OUR PULSE COMMUNITY!

Unblock notifications in browser settings.
ADVERTISEMENT

Eyewitness? Submit your stories now via social or:

Email: eyewitness@pulse.ng

Recommended articles

A billionaire is building a new Titanic ship — when is the first trip?

A billionaire is building a new Titanic ship — when is the first trip?

Anyone who lives in this beautiful villa is cursed with bad luck

Anyone who lives in this beautiful villa is cursed with bad luck

Sony’s creators convention redefines creative landscape for content creators

Sony’s creators convention redefines creative landscape for content creators

Abortion, cohabitation and other 'sins' Catholic Church does not forgive

Abortion, cohabitation and other 'sins' Catholic Church does not forgive

5 drinks that stain teeth and how to keep your teeth white

5 drinks that stain teeth and how to keep your teeth white

5 tips for escaping a car sinking underwater

5 tips for escaping a car sinking underwater

The largest snake in the world Ana Julia is dead — unknown gunmen suspected

The largest snake in the world Ana Julia is dead — unknown gunmen suspected

10 sexual benefits of watermelon for men and women

10 sexual benefits of watermelon for men and women

8 sexual benefits of ginger for men and women

8 sexual benefits of ginger for men and women

10 Sex Positions for Super-Deep Penetration

10 Sex Positions for Super-Deep Penetration

What It Feels Like to Use a Butt Plug While Masturbating

What It Feels Like to Use a Butt Plug While Masturbating

11 Ways Men Can Make Their Orgasms Even Better

11 Ways Men Can Make Their Orgasms Even Better

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT