Supporting Someone to Overpower Depression

Depression is defined as a mental state characterized by prolonged and disproportionate feeling of sadness, apathy, low-self esteem and despair.   This is a malady picking on persons of all ages, regardless of sex and race.   I am sharing these tips and ideas based on a “layman’s point of view” hoping this would help break the shackles of hopelessness and relive a more peaceful life.

This emotional state is triggered off by a myriad of causes.  Perhaps topping the list is failed relationships, then financial difficulties, physical flaws, failures in life, social inequity, and countless factors that lessen one’s zest to live.

A person is apparently suffering from this disorder if he: 

-       Is always suspicious of most people and everything around him.

-       Is always irritable and quick to anger

-       Finds it hard to get sleep or sleeps most of the time

-       Lacks appetite or has resorted to eating as a past time

-       Is either losing weight or gaining more weight  by the day

-       Is apt to notice more of the negative side of things and finds it difficult to appreciate the beauty of people and the goodness in most situations

-       Is prone to sickness and has a poor mental concentration

As the person sees himself as useless and hopeless it is all the more difficult to deal with him.  He may construe well meaning advises and attentions in a negative way hence extra care should be exercised.  

Thus to help him heal from his anxiety we need to:

-      Extend utmost understanding and patience

-      Let him feel that he is loved, important and needed

-      Help him realize his talents and positive traits and the benefits of putting these into use.

-      Help him find therapeutic activities like engaging in sports, hobbies and art that will help calm down his nerves and drive away his attention from his concerns and worries

-      Help him reach out to people

-      Make him understand the importance of seeking  psychiatric help (in worst cases)

Depression is not only self destruction but also devastation of people attached to the victim.   Strive to put meaning into his life again.  And, help him turn to God for strength and guidance.  Faith has changed countless lives for the better and our Lord is just a prayer away call on Him if you must.