Depression is a serious problem that affects people of all ages, and can severely impact everyday life for both sufferers and those around them.
Low mood and depression can make it difficult for an individual to connect with others on an emotional level – even the people they love the most. If your friend or loved one has depression, it can be difficult to know what to do in order to provide support.
Though our experienced psychologists and counsellors at Newcastle Psychologist & Counselling offer specialist depression counselling in Newcastle, including specialist Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for depression, not everyone might feel motivated or feel able to seek help for themselves.
Here are some things you can do to support someone going through depression:
Take Depression Seriously
Depression is not the same as feeling down for a day – it is a serious condition that can affect all aspect of an individual’s life. If your loved one feels able to tell you about their emotions, take what they are saying seriously.
Make sure that you are there to listen to them, and assure them that you are there to provide whatever support they may need.
Seeking professional face to face or online counselling for depression is a helpful step to take, which can help the person to effectively manage and overcome depression and if they are open to seeking help, it can be helpful to contact our depression counselling service on their behalf.
Offer Help with Everyday Tasks
It’s common for depressed individuals to neglect everyday tasks, such as bill paying, or household chores. Showing your support by providing practical help with these things can bring comfort to someone with depression.
It is important however that you don’t take over all of their tasks – this can disempower the person more and make them feel guilty or a burden.
Instead, offer to help and continue to encourage them to do things themselves. If these are fun activities, the positive experience can help them feel better, even if only temporary.
Seek Professional Depression Counselling
Above all else, finding professional help for depression is the most important thing you can help your loved one to do. Depression is a treatable condition, which can be significantly helped by therapy or counselling.
For those looking for specialist help for their friend or loved one, our experienced counsellors and psychologists provide a range of therapies as part of depression counselling in Newcastle, including Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Compassion Focused Therapy (CFT).
Contact us about Depression Counselling
If you would like to access our services for depression, please fill in the box below or call 07966645198 to speak to a member of our team today.
Best wishes,
Dr Stuart Sadler
Lead Clinical Psychologist
