Depression is a slow killer that can take anyone in its grip anytime. At this point of time it is important for the family and friends to help and support the patient rather than isolate or abandon him/her. Empathy is more important than sympathy and to help the patient fight mental demons, you need to be around when needed. There are several ways how family and friends can help someone suffering from depression.

The foremost thing one can do for the depressed person is to help him/her get appropriate treatment which will begin only after diagnosis. This often involves encouraging the individual to see a good therapist and then helping him stick with the treatment all the way. This may take from a few weeks to several months or even years depending upon the condition of the patient and the type of depression he has. There might be occasions when the patient becomes overbearing or begins to reject you, but the only way to pull out a loved one from the clutches of depression is by being patient and supportive until the signs begin to fade.

Many a times, it becomes very difficult to convince a loved one to talk about their depression or to see a therapist. Friends and family play a major role in convincing the person to begin the treatment. You may require making appointments and accompanying the patient on visits. In certain cases, it may also mean monitoring the person’s medication and whether he/she is following the doctor’s advice.

One of the most important things how friends and family can help the patient is by means of providing emotional and moral support. This involves a great deal of understanding, affection, listening and convincing the patient that he/she is not alone. If a person makes remarks about suicide, it is best to report it to the person’s counselor or therapist.

Encourage the patient to get involved in outdoor or indoor activities like playing games, hobbies, sports, religious activities etc. Keep the person’s mind engaged in conversation and avoid making harsh statements and accusations. Never blame the patient for faking the illness or expect him/her to get over it suddenly. Depression can lower a person’s confidence and self esteem and interfere with his/her capability to get help. It can leave a person feeling crippled, worthless, fatigued and hopeless.

You must always remember that you cannot cure someone else’s depression all by yourself. You need to help them get help and be there when you are needed.