Source: aarp.org
We all want to be a support person to others especially for people who are very dear to us like our family and friends. According to Deborah Serani, PsyD, a psychologist who’s struggled with depression herself, “When I was struggling with my own depression, the most healing moments came when someone I loved simply sat with me while I cried, or wordlessly held my hand, or spoke warmly to me with statements like ‘You’re so important to me.’ ‘Tell me what I can do to help you.’ ‘We’re going to find a way to help you to feel better.'” But when times get rough and we want to provide support or take care of them, how do we avoid falling into the trap of developing depression as well? How do we keep our sanity despite the day to day challenge of handling and interacting with them? Here are some of the helpful reminders which can ease up the burden of taking care of people with depression.
Set as an example.
Be constantly reminded that we are more of what we do than what we say. People who are depressed don’t need us to solve their problems for them. Sometimes what makes a huge difference is our consistent presence and support for them, showing genuine understanding, exhibiting compassion, and providing them an optimistic environment. Someone who will be there to listen to their burdens, heartaches, and pains. Show a positive outlook and future to them. “Habitual negative thinking can lead to many problems,” Simon Rego, PsyD says. “First, given the connection between thoughts and emotions, it can serve to bring down or keep down your mood. Second, negative thoughts can influence the way you act and react, which can lead to a variety of problematic behaviors.”
Source: youbeauty.com
Set boundaries and proper expectations.
Caring for someone with depression can wear you down. Therefore, it is very crucial that you set limits on how much time, assistance, and support you can give to other people. Remember, you cannot give what you do not have. A tired or exhausted caregiver can negatively influence the people with depression. They might think that they are being a burden and you are unwilling to help them.
Be aware of your weaknesses and seek help when needed.
When times get really rough and you feel like you also need help, get the proper support system that you also need. Talk to others, vent your worries. Take a break when you need to. In that way, you will have an opportunity to recharge and recover from the day to day challenges of taking care of your loved one. Online therapy is a convenient, accessible and highly recommended solution to caregivers who need this kind of support system. Not only online therapists are available just a click away but they are well trained in handling this kind of circumstances. They can provide adequate information and support system. They can both serve your needs as well as your loved one. It is an experience of having an on call person when you need them. “The ease and convenience of scheduling a therapy appointment online and talking with a therapist from the privacy of one’s own home — or wherever one may be — is a huge draw for consumers, many of whom are seeking therapy for the first time in their lives,” according to Lindsay Henderson, PsyD.
Source: lifelinehomecare.org
Our physical and psychological health are equally important to our family and friends. Although keeping your sanity in difficult times is challenging. You may have mixed emotions of helplessness, frustrations or even anger. If you do not take care of yourself, things will become overwhelming. Therefore, being equipped with these guidelines are handy helpful reminders. Remember that their condition is treatable as long as they are compliant with their treatment regimen and medication.