If your loved one is battling depression, it can be difficult to know how to help them. The symptoms differ from person to person. Some symptoms can interfere with an individual’s day-to-day activities, while other people may feel hopeless or overwhelmed without any clear reason why. If you are wondering how to help a loved one with depression, Rose Hill Center can help you learn how to assist them.
One of the critical steps of helping your loved one is to learn the symptoms of depression. While each case of depression varies from person to person, as do the symptoms, knowing the symptoms can help you understand what your loved one is going through. To learn more about your loved one’s depression treatment options, contact the team at Rose Hill Center today by calling 866.367.0220.
What Are the Symptoms of Depression?
Depression is a mental health condition where symptoms last for a period of two or more weeks. During this period, the person is suffering from hopelessness, sadness, or loss of pleasure and interest in activities. In some individuals, their symptoms may appear as feeling irritated or annoyed, rather than sad. They may also show a range of other symptoms, including:
- Insomnia (not being able to sleep) or hypersomnia (sleeping all of the time)
- An apparent loss of interest in day-to-day activities, including their hobbies
- Changes in appetite, leading to significant weight loss or gain
- Loss of energy
- Challenges concentrating or thinking
In addition, your loved one may have reoccurring thoughts of death or suicide. If they tell you that they’re considering suicide, please call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-8255 right away. Doing so can save a life.
How to Care For a Loved One With Depression
When you’re wondering how to care for a loved one with depression, one of the most important things you can do is encourage them to get treatment. At a residential mental health facility, we can address each of your loved one’s needs. To encourage your loved one to get treatment, you can tell them what symptoms you’ve noticed, and remind them that this condition isn’t their fault. You can also assure them that you’ll accompany them to the initial appointments.
Another way to care for your loved one is to listen and be there for them. Depression is an extremely isolating condition, as the person internalizes emotions. Take a few moments to listen in a compassionate and caring way. You don’t have to have the answers or know how to fix the problem. You just need to be there for your loved one, allowing them to feel like someone else hears their concerns. If you can, offer to accompany them to the store or assistance with daily tasks. Simply knowing that someone is there to support them can be extremely beneficial.
Additionally, you should be aware of their state, and, if you recognize a crisis, get help immediately. In many cases of depression, there lies a high risk of suicide attempts. If your loved one lives alone and often feels hopeless or despondent, they may be at higher risk of suicide. If you fear that your loved one may commit suicide, contact emergency services as soon as possible.
Finally, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Helping a loved one with depression can be physically and emotionally draining. As a result, it’s vital to practice basic self-care. You should also try to create proper boundaries, and surround yourself with other people who you can rely on.
Get Treatment at Rose Hill Center
If your loved one needs depression treatment, it’s vital to help them get the care and support they need. At Rose Hill Center, we offer a wide array of depression treatment options, including:
- Residential rehabilitation services
- Transitional living services
- Extended residential services
- Community support services
To learn more about the treatment options available at Rose Hill Center, contact us today at 866.367.0220.
