Each of us has had bad days in our lives. Sometimes due to the weather, the change of seasons, an unresolved problem, a day of just low self-confidence, frustration from a certain situation, the reasons can be so many.
But there is a big difference between mood swings and depression. If you haven't experienced them yourself, you probably have a friend who is depressed. Leigh McInnis, a mental health expert at Newport Academy in Virginia, shares ways you should talk to these people.
Be sincere in what you say
Simple and sincere words like, "I'm here for you" and "I want you to know how much you mean to me" are the best you can say to a depressed person. Be empathetic about what they are going through by expressing that you are sorry, while you should encourage them to talk to a professional.
Don't minimize their pain
If your friend won't open up to you, don't push them any further. You shouldn't force those struggling with depression to talk if they don't want to. Most importantly, never minimize their pain with comments such as, "It's nothing, there's worse," or "Get your mind off the boredom, just enjoy yourself!" It seems like you underestimate their pain!
Encourage them to seek help
When a person is depressed, the best thing you can do is be a good friend by listening and showing support. But it's just as important to encourage them to seek professional help. Depression is not the same for everyone, you just need to recognize the warning signs in your friend and be there to help them.
