How to Stay Healthy While Dealing With a Depressed Family Member or Roommate

Depression affects everyone it touches, including the well-meaning people surrounding the person who struggles with the condition. Dealing with a depressed family member or roommate can be very emotional. It is vital to take care of yourself to stay healthy.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

How to Stay Healthy While Dealing With a Depressed Family Member or Roommate

1. Remember that depression is not a choice. A loved one who struggles with depression is not intentionally hurting you. It’s important not to take the person’s depression personally.

2. Take time for yourself. Make appointments with yourself to do what you want to do: Go for a walk, get a pedicure, treat yourself to a bubble bath -- whatever it is that you would enjoy doing, do it!

3. Don’t isolate yourself. It is much easier to fall into depression or another unhealthy state if you don’t have interaction with others. Make sure you have a support system that can help keep you balanced. You may want to look into a support group or a counselor.

4. Stay active. A healthy body helps a healthy mind. Get exercise and eat right.

5. Try to be positive and have a sense of humor. Perhaps this is easier said than done, but it can make a great difference.