That’s why it can be helpful to understand what not to say to someone with depression.
Like diabetes or hypothyroidism, depression can happen because of physiological reasons.
For some people, this may mean takingmedications that address chemical imbalancesthat can contribute to the condition.
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Depression makes it difficult for individuals to function as they typically would, and it islonger-term than ordinary sadness.
While there are certainly benefits topracticing positive thinking,it’s not enough to cure someone of depression.
This is true of many mental illnesses, but alsochronic illnesses and conditionsthat are sometimes deemed invisible.
It takes courage to speak openly about the pain they are experiencing.
If someone responds with doubt, it may make them feel liketalking about their depressionis not safe.
Remember that pain (both emotional and physical) is not only subjective but also relative.
Depression doesn’t need a justification.
So, stop yourself from making comparisons or staging a “competition” for who feels the worst.
However, people with depression may lack the internal resources needed tocope with stressin an effective and healthy way.
There are manyphysical symptoms of depression, including chronic pain,which are very real.
Depression is a medical condition that can’t be expected to improve without treatment.
Don’t Be Apathetic
When someone is depressed, they may carry feelings of guilt and shame.
They may feel that they are a burden to the people in their lives.
These feelings can make depression worse and may even lead tosuicidal thoughtsorself-harming behaviors.
If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact theNational Suicide Prevention Lifelineat988for support and assistance from a trained counselor.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
If you find yourself thinking, “Who cares?”
when listening to a loved one, recognize that it might be asign you are burnt out.
People who experience depression still care about others.
They just may not have the capacity to show it whendealing with depression.
If you’ve never had depression, it may be hard for you to empathize.
If you are struggling to understand what they need, be honest.
Calmly explain, then be patient and ready to listen.
That’s why it can be tough to find helpful words for someone who is feeling depressed.
Don’t be afraid to say, “I am not sure what to say right now.”
Stay mindful that the words you know can make a big difference.
And if you’re not careful, your words might do more harm than good.
If you think you’ve said something hurtful in the past, apologize.
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