How to deal with those experiencing depression

Depression is one of the most controversial mental health disorders that is shunned in every table of conversation, but yet the greatest reason behind the rise in suicidal cases and misuse of drugs.

We definitely avoid the conversation revolving around depression like in the early 2000s when HIV&AIDs was rampant. Truth be told ignoring the conversation and denying its presence is the genesis of an unstable generation and an unhealthy society.

One of the greatest wealth we have and can floss about as human beings is health. We sometimes take it for granted but don’t realize how much of a win it is. We can’t compensate or trade life. Once it’s gone there is no reversing.

We live in a society where the notion is ‘one man for himself’. If not that, it’s ‘what’s in it for me?’ sadly. The mantra of every individual is success, and there is nothing wrong with that. The question is, what is the service played by your success, or rather what is your role in humanity?

Truth is we are designed to love and respect each other. Our life is more fulfilling when we serve others.

Depression is broad and all that’s talked about is prevention, its causes, its impacts, and the effect it has on our society and those around the affected. Forgetting we have individuals who are experiencing depression whom we ignore.

Here are some ways on how to deal with them

Treat them with love

Above all the gifts you would ever offer is always showering or embracing the depressed with love. allowing them to feel love is one way of drawing them closer and giving them hope. We all deserve to feel safe and appreciated, for them, all they want is a reason to keep fighting and showing up.

Instead what most of us do is wait till we lose our loved ones so as to acknowledge how beautiful they made our world and how much we loved them. I go by the mantra Love when you can, say it as much as your heart wants you to, and act out of love even when no one sees it.

Involve them in conversations

We live by principles and one of them being, not engaging in talks that are not beneficial. Though sometimes small talk or giving an ear or attention to someone might be the reason they don’t take their lives.

Learn who they are past their condition

Getting to know someone is worth more than just assuming. Those experiencing depression wish to be understood but are given the privilege to express themselves. Apart from going through depression, they are human beings who deserve to be seen passed it.  get to know their interest, passion, goals, and life outside and beyond their current state.

Encourage them to go to therapy

It is not obvious and easy to convince someone to feel okay to be attended by a therapist but it is worth it. let them learn the importance and the impacts they are going to experience after therapy. Apart from encouraging them to access therapy, walk with them during their healing journey.

Hug them as much as you can

If at all make it a culture. Hugs are very therapeutic. It builds trust and a safe connection. That’s a simple step to make them feel enough and safe to talk and share their experiences.

Protect them from people who don’t understand mental health

Despite having talks about mental health it’s not common to everyone, and not everyone understands it. This means those under depressed will experience judgment, therefore enlightening those around you on mental health is one way of protecting the depressed.

 The goal is to have a healthy world and experience healthy living. Hope we will achieve this by uniting in mental health awareness advocacy.