Depression and anxiety can leave people feeling isolated and unable to cope with daily life.It is hard to see someone who is struggling with mental health problems and not know how to help them.Being present in this person's life and showing that you care is some of the best help you can give.
Step 1: Depression and anxiety can be discussed.
You should be aware of depression and anxiety.Knowledge is power, and this is true in helping someone with mental illness.The more you know about anxiety and depression, the better you can help someone.Talk to a psychologist, psychiatrist, therapist, or medical doctor if you want to learn about anxiety and depression.Depression and anxiety often go together, so you might want to look into that.There is more information about anxiety in How to Overcome Anxiety.It's possible to identify signs of depression as well.
Step 2: Look for warning signs.
While depression and anxiety have specific markers for diagnosis, you may pick up on a person's warning signs before they fully develop depression or anxiety.It is possible for someone with depression to stop taking care of themselves or stop engaging in activities if they are depressed.Early signs of anxiety include being overly preoccupied with certain events or situations and the fear that surrounds them.You can help your loved one identify and address symptoms when you notice early warning signs.Any patterns of stress or withdrawal that the individual shows is an early sign.It is possible to anticipate symptoms.If someone is about to move and start a new job, you can help your loved one cope with stress before it becomes a problem.
Step 3: There are warning signs of suicide.
People with mental health problems are more likely to take their own lives.People that are at-risk may talk about suicide, death, or dying, self- harm, express hopelessness, seek out means (such as pills, weapons, and other ways to end life), or experience a sudden sense of calm after a deep depression.Discuss your concerns with someone you know has warning signs.Call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline.If the person is making threats of violence against themselves or others, has made a suicide plan, or is ready to attempt suicide, you can call the emergency services.If you have to, you can take the person to the emergency department at your local hospital or check them into a behavioral health unit.
Step 4: Support and express your concern.
Let your loved one know that you care about their health and are there to support them.It can be comforting to know that others are willing to help.A sense of relief can come when you state your concern and care.It is okay to talk about mental health and daily struggles.No one should be alone.
Step 5: Ask what you can do to help.
Let your friend or family member know that you are willing to help.You can ask, "What can I do to help?" or you can offer specific help, such as offering to study together or calling a therapist.It is possible to give emotional and verbal support, as well as offer to cook meals, help with transportation, and do activities together.Do you know if the person is receiving treatment?Offer to help find a therapist or go to a mental health center if you don't already have one.
Step 6: Encourage treatment.
People with depression don't realize they're depressed.Depression can make a person feel embarrassed or ashamed.Let this person know that you want them to feel better.While you may want to do everything in your power to help, remind the individual that trained professionals can help with both anxiety and depression and that it is okay to reach out for help.You can express your desire to help by setting up appointments with a medical doctor or psychologist, going with your loved one to appointments, or checking in after appointments.If someone doesn't want therapy, figure out why.People are embarrassed if they need help.If your loved one continues to resist, assure them that you care, and if things change, you are willing to help find treatment.
Step 7: Help set goals.
It is helpful to have goals in order to give your loved one direction.Come up with some goals with the person.Professional, family, social, work, and hobby goals can be included.Make sure goals are realistic and can be accomplished one step at a time.If this individual struggles with isolation, it is a good idea to get together with family and friends once a week.Movie nights, bowling, or going to dinner are examples of activities that can be included.
Step 8: A healthy lifestyle is encouraged.
Depression and anxiety can be managed with healthy habits.Encourage your loved one to sleep, exercise, and eat a balanced diet.These lifestyle habits can buffer the risks of depression and anxiety and aid in overall well-being.Model a healthy lifestyle of your own.Discourage substance use.Alcohol or drugs are not the way to deal with stress.Depression and anxiety can be worsened by substances.
Step 9: Say when you notice a change.
Let your loved one know if you have noticed a change in your behavior that relates to depression or anxiety.When behaviors change, it can be helpful to have outside influences know about it.It is possible to build self-awareness around symptoms and behaviors.You can feel less accusing if you choose to do this through questioning.You should be gentle in your approach.You seem to be more on edge than usual, instead of saying, "It seems like you're anxious and depressed today"Is something causing you stress?
Step 10: The person should be treated with respect and dignity.
It may be difficult to be around this individual, but remember to treat them with respect and kindness.Don't say things like, "Get over it," or "I wish you would snap out of it."Being a supportive friend is more important than the emotional experience.Don't talk to your loved one in a loud voice.Even if you don't feel like interacting, be supportive and respectful.Say, "I notice you're really down today," instead of "Just smile."I apologize for the way you feel.
Step 11: Listen to it.
Encourage your loved one to talk about depression.When listening to someone, don't judge them and instead encourage them to talk about their feelings and thoughts.One discussion won't make anxiety and depression go away, so be available to listen.Resist the urge to fix the person.Listen and respond compassionately to the person.
Step 12: Be patient.
It is possible that you want your loved one to get better quickly and live a full life.It is important to know when pushing is hurting the other person or damaging your relationship.Try to find a balance between allowing the person to make their own decisions and gently encouraging them to push the boundaries.You may be able to find a balance between pushing and being patient.When one is more appropriate over the other, be sure to focus on how your loved one responds.