Coping With Depression
As A Family
There are many things the entire family can do when a loved one is depressed. Families can bond together to help—but each member should also be aware of his or her own needs. The more your family knows about depression and its effects, the better you'll be able to help your loved one manage depression and get your life back again.
Here are some important guidelines for dealing with depression and the associated symptoms of anxiety as a family:
What You Can Do Together
- Acknowledge that your loved one is suffering from a medical condition that can be treated. As a family, support the fact that your loved one is seeing a physician and taking medication as directed.
- Adjust responsibilities during the healing process. As with any condition, it takes time and treatment to get better. During this stressful time, everyone in the family will be expected to adjust responsibilities and develop patience. The youngest in the family can do simple chores; others can rotate tasks so they don't get burned out.
- Recognize that the symptoms of depression may cause a person to withdraw emotionally and physically. All family members should develop patience with your depressed loved one. Explain to younger children that "Mom is very sad today, but she still loves you."
- Watch for signs that your loved one is considering suicide. Unfortunately, these signs may appear early in treatment, just when a person seems to be feeling better and finally has the energy to act. Some signs to watch for might be:
- Talking about suicide
- Giving away valued possessions
- Putting things in order (e.g., finishing projects and settling finances)
- Making comments such as: "You won't have to worry about me much longer."
- Reckless behavior
- Acting overly happy, relieved, or elated
If your loved one has mentioned suicide, or if you feel that she or he may do something to harm themselves, call 911 immediately (or other local emergency phone number) and contact his or her doctor.
- Set a good example by making healthy lifestyle choices. You can all benefit from adhering to good eating and exercise habits, as well as regular sleep schedules. If all members of the family avoid alcohol and tobacco, they can serve as role models to the depressed person.
- Consider family or couples talk therapy. Therapy can provide a way to express your feelings and begin to communicate with your loved one in a productive way. Sometimes, a neutral observer can help to restore balance and offer a fresh perspective on issues that you've been dealing with.
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