How to Help a Friend Overcome Depression
It can be difficult to watch a friend succumb to feelings of inadequacy and doubt. Depression can creep up on even the most well-adjusted person, making him turn away from friends and cling to pessimistic thoughts. While it can be hurtful if your initial attempts to help a depressed friend are met with resistance, remaining idle as your friend slips further into depression isn't an acceptable solution. Although helping a friend overcome depression can be emotionally draining, doing so can solidify your commitment to your friend's emotional growth.
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Instructions
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Acknowledge her depression. Ignoring signs of depression, which include withdrawal from activities, irritability and fatigue, doesn't help your friend. It can even make the situation worse, as she may take your apprehension to intervene as a sign of apathy. If your friend does reveal that she is depressed, avoid belittling or downplaying the significance of her emotions. Depression is a serious condition and can't merely be "snapped out of" at will.
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Provide reminders of his positive traits. Depression can make it easier to magnify negative characteristics while ignoring positive qualities. Combat your friend's low feelings with consistent references to his positive abilities. Writing a poem about your friend can give him something tangible to read when he's feeling defeated. Letting your friend know that he's strong enough to overcome adversity can spark constructive thinking.
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Stay positive when confronted with negativity. Realizing that she may not readily accept your help can prepare you for the long haul. Learn to accept negative responses instead of thinking that a few kind words will magically solve your friend's depression. Avoid reacting to insults or feeding into her negativity. Stand firm in your resolve to assist your friend without resorting to bickering or other petty behavior.
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Motivate her to stay active. Set a positive example for your friend by engaging in constructive hobbies and behaviors. Help your friend fight feelings of isolation and abandonment by inviting him on outings. Remind your friend that it feels pleasant to laugh and to be surrounded by well-adjusted friends.
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Listen to his feelings without making judgments. Provide an active ear without making him feel uncomfortable for his thoughts. Ask you friend how you can help him, and let him know that his happiness is important to you. Although offering solutions can be helpful, the power of just listening can work wonders to relieve stress.
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Tips & Warnings
Asking other friends to assist in your efforts can increase your effectiveness. Don't forget about your own health when helping a friend overcome depression. Ensuring you have constructive outlets can better equip you to handle this added stress. Encouraging your friend to seek professional help may be the best option for his emotional well-being.
Avoid forcing your friend to participate in social events. This aggressive behavior may make him less likely to accept your help in the future. Never ignore warnings of suicide or other destructive behaviors. Pretending as if your friend never said these harmful statements won't benefit her emotional well-being.
