Depression is a very sensitive subject that should be approached with care. While escaping depression is possible, it cannot be done without the help of medical professionals, friends, and family. Unfortunately, friends and family don’t always know the right thing to do or say in order to help. Depression is a medical condition that requires the attention of professionals in order to accurately treat the disease. Sometimes this requires a combination of medication, talk therapy, and other measures. When someone with depression feels misunderstood, they can end up feeling isolated which perpetuates the disease. Try understanding what they’re going through from their perspective and not your own. Being sensitive to how your words and actions are being perceived is one of the best ways to help. While more and more people are becoming open about their mental health struggles, there is still a stigma associated with mental illnesses that can cause those who are affected to feel ashamed. One study found that family member’s attitudes towards mental health with regards to people suffering depression had a significant impact on their symptoms. Therefore, trying to be as gentle as possible while providing support can make a huge difference.

The Do’s and Don’ts

Don’t: Tell them to “just stop being sad.”

Do: Listen empathetically with an open mind.

Because depression is a medical condition, a person suffering does not have control over their feelings. From your perspective, you may feel as though they should be able to snap out of it, but that isn’t possible for someone who is depressed. Escaping depression is no easy feat, and asking someone to cheer up or stop being sad wrongfully implies there is a possible quick fix. Listen empathetically, and try not to let any sort of judgment or preconceived notions cloud your thoughts.

Don’t: Dismiss their feelings.

Do: Help them to find the support they need

Saying, “What do you have to be depressed about?” Will only exacerbate the problem. Although it is important to be grateful and practicing gratitude can be helpful for people suffering from depression, you cannot argue someone out of their disease. Do your best to help them fix the problem, not minimize it. 

Don’t: Place blame or shame.

Do: Give them hope.

When a person is depressed, they may feel like they’re trying everything they can do to change but nothing is working. This is particularly evident in people suffering from treatment-resistant depression. They may feel like change isn’t possible, and will never happen for them. It’s important to be strong and provide hope that things will get better, and not pack on the shame you may feel by not understanding the illness.

Don’t: Tell them to go take a walk.

Do: Offer to take a walk or drive with them.

Feeling isolated or alone with depression is not productive and can make symptoms worse. On top of that, telling someone to go take a walk suggests that, again, their feelings are invalid and they can just snap out of it. However, getting outside, having a change of scenery, or even getting a little bit of exercise can be helpful for symptoms. The problem is that when someone is experiencing an episode of depression they are unlikely to want to engage in these activities. Instead, suggest you both go for a walk so they understand they aren’t alone.

Ketamine for Depression: Facts About Ketamine

Many studies have shown that ketamine for depression does work for some people. Although sometimes used as a party drug, ketamine—in low doses—has been proven to help those with treatment-resistant depression or suicidal ideations. Ketamine is not the first line of treatment, but many people have found hope and were able to reclaim their lives through ketamine infusion therapy administered by a professional. Because ketamine works differently in the brain than typical antidepressant medications, it can be a beacon of hope for people suffering. More research needs to be done about how ketamine works, the current research is positive. If you or a loved one is suffering from depression, contact VIP Ketamine Clinics to see if you could be a candidate.