The support and involvement of family and friends can be crucial in helping someone who is depressed. It is especially helpful if family and friends encourage the patient to stick with treatment and practice the coping techniques and problem-solving skills he or she is learning during psychotherapy.
Living with a depressed person can be very difficult and stressful on family members and friends.
Here are some suggestions for living with a depressed person that may make things easier for you and more beneficial for the depressed person:
- Recognize that depression is often expressed as hostility, rejection, and irritability.
- Understand that depression is a disorder with biological, psychological, and interpersonal components; it is not a personal weakness or failure on the part of the sufferer.
- Adopt an interaction style that puts the depressed person in charge. For example, instead of suggesting, “Let’s go to the movies tonight,” try this: “I’d like to see a movie tonight. Which one of these do you want to see with me?”
- Encourage the depressed person to seek professional help. Accompany and support your loved one, but make it clear that it is his or her responsibility to get better.
- Remember that treatment is very effective and your loved one will improve with treatment within a few months.
- Support opportunities for the depressed person to be rewarded, such as visiting friends or going out for activities. Don’t force these, though.
- Make sure you notice and praise any significant improvement. Be genuine.
- Leave time for yourself and your own needs. Take breaks from the depressed person from time to time. It will help both of you.
- Consider family or marital therapy; these forms of therapy may be beneficial in bringing together all those affected by depression and helping them learn effective ways to cope together.
- Consider turning to support groups, either for the depressed person or for you as his/her family member.
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This information is provided by the Cleveland Clinic and is not intended to replace the medical advice of your doctor or health care provider. Please consult your health care provider for advice about a specific medical condition. This document was last reviewed on: 2/1/2005…#9299
