Depression is a word with many meanings. Depression is a mood disorder that can affect all aspects of our lives, yet still have distinct individual characteristics.
From being in a bad mood to feelings of despair or helplessness, depression can take the form of a mild disturbance or a more severe, life-threatening impact.
Experiencing sorrow and mood swings from time to time is part of our natural response to setbacks, but if it persists, it is classified as depression. It can have a significant negative effect on family life, relationships, work, and health.
Depression is common. According to the World Health Organization, more than 264 million people of all ages globally suffer from depression. The burden of depression and other mental health conditions is growing, and every year, 25% of Europe’s population experiences depression or anxiety.
There can be several different triggers, and they can vary. Studies have confirmed that important factors such as homelessness, unemployment, and lack of education and opportunities are major contributors to mental health struggles among young Europeans. But seemingly smaller incidents or setbacks in relationships can also lead to depression.
Eurofound, an EU agency for improving living and working conditions, found that 14% of young adults are at risk of depression, while 4% of people aged 15 to 24 in Europe already suffer from chronic depression.
Recognizing and managing the causes of depression is not easy. Seeking help is still stigmatized, so millions of people suffer in silence even though effective treatments are available.
Talking to a friend or family member about problems is an important but often difficult first step to take. This is compounded by the fact that most people find it embarrassing or are hesitant to offer help because they don’t understand how to reach out or feel they lack the right knowledge to make a difference.
Support from others, such as a friend or family member, is one of the most effective first steps on a treatment path, which may include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), interpersonal psychotherapy, and antidepressant medication.
Five tips on how to help a friend with depression
- Be attentiveIn addition to low and/or negative moods, there are other signs that provide an early warning of depression. You may be depressed if you’ve lost interest in things you normally enjoy, feel fatigued, eat too much or stop eating, have trouble concentrating or sleeping, or withdraw from family and friends.
- How to start a conversationFinding the right time and words to begin a conversation about depression can be difficult, so it’s worth choosing things to say that show you care and want to know how they feel.
Finding the right time and place can make it easier, such as talking about it when the person is calm and in a setting free from interruptions.
The charity Age UK says: “You may feel uncomfortable raising a sensitive topic, especially if the person you care about doesn’t often talk about their feelings. Explain why you’re worried but avoid diagnosing their problem or pushing solutions.” Choose words that are understandable and relatable.
- Be a good listenerBeing a good listener is a kind act and has a value that should never be underestimated. We all know that sometimes just talking about a problem can relieve pressure and make us feel better. By showing that you’re there, you can help someone who is not feeling well open up.
Depression can be a complicated tangle of emotions. Being a compassionate listener without judging is far more effective than trying to untangle the mess and tell them what needs to be done.
Offer support rather than solutions, but be engaged in what you hear and respond with care and compassion when possible.
Encourage the person to seek help from healthcare professionals; there’s no shame in asking for treatment, and if needed, medication tailored to their needs. A quick and accurate follow-up with a doctor can be very beneficial in determining the exact nature of the condition and creating the right treatment plan.
- Stay in touchIt’s unlikely that the clouds will clear after just one conversation. Stay in touch so that it’s clear you’re there and care, but not every conversation needs to be about depression.
Letting someone know they are important to you is empowering. You can spread optimism and gently remind them of good times and their qualities. Depression can be isolating and lonely, so regular contact can reduce its impact.
If you live with the person, there are many opportunities to show you care through small gestures of kindness.
- Take care of yourselfIt can be demanding to care for a loved one suffering from depression. You may need to help with practical things and also deal with your own concerns, so it’s important to stay healthy and make time for yourself.
Relax or practice mindfulness and take breaks. You need emotional energy to support loved ones or friends when they need help.
References:
- World Health Organization. Depression. January 2020. Accessed January 2021. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression
- World Health Organization Regional Office for Europe. Depression in Europe: facts and figures. October 2012. Accessed January 2021. https://www.euro.who.int/en/health-topics/noncommunicable-diseases/mental-health/news/news/2012/10/depression-in-europe/depression-in-europe-facts-and-figures
- Crisis point: Well-being of young people still defined by the economic crisis. July 2019. Accessed January 2021. https://www.eurofound.europa.eu/news/news-articles/crisis-point-well-being-of-young-people-still-defined-by-the-economic-crisis?&utm_campaign=quality-of-life-and-public-services&utm_content=ef19041&utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social-network
- Age UK. Depression and Anxiety. Accessed January 2021. https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/health-wellbeing/conditions-illnesses/depression-anxiety/
