Supporting Friends with Depression

If I asked you, ‘how are you today?’, how would you react?

Perhaps with a cursory, ‘fine thanks, how are you?’, as seems to be the norm whenever somebody asks that.

But all too often, we hide our true feelings inside. Fear of judgement, fear of vulnerability, shame, confusion.

When it comes to mental health, many are afraid to talk about it or to admit that they’re anything but ‘fine’, but in the past few years with world-changing traumas, and now facing ever uncertain times, it is more important than ever.

First there was the pandemic, and the traumatic after effects of loss and lockdown are still being felt today. Now there’s war, Cost of Living, terrible news updates in our feeds, and other factors of life which create the perfect concoction for Depression and other mental health disorders.

But what if it isn’t about you? What if you suspect a friend or somebody close to you is going through a tough time, suffering from a mental health disorder, or displaying symptoms?

It can feel overwhelming and awkward when you don’t know what to do or say. What if you say the wrong thing? What if you upset them even more? And how are you supposed to help if they’re being cold or distant towards you?

Thankfully, this amazing guide from psychologywriting.com,is there to guide you. Not only is it in depth, but full of simple, actionable steps you can take to support someone in need who is struggling with Depression or poor mental health in general.

If you’re feeling at a loss and haven’t clicked yet, I seriously urge you to check it out.

And if you’re struggling yourself, please, please don’t suffer in silence.

If you live in the UK, you can find a list of numbers to call and other services right here. I also urge you to reach out to someone close to you, and/or your GP.

Remember, healing starts with the simple step of reaching out. It’s incredible what impact the simple act of reaching out can be to a person in need.