Support your loved one through difficult times
Maphuti Mashiane, a registered counselor explains how can can assist a friend or loved one with depression or anxiety.
POLOKWANE – The festive season is here and while many people look forward to the time off and spending time with loved ones, others find the time depressing.
Maphuti Mashiane, a registered counselor explained that the depression may be a result of fear because of the potential of relapsing into bad habits, loneliness or despair.
He explained that supporting a depressed person often seems difficult and complex but what we can do is to make them realise that we are there for them. “Offer to help even with the smallest or most insignificant things. Also ask for help from them which will help them realise that they are not useless. It is also important to give them their space,” he said.
Mashiane added that we often find ourselves in difficult situations whereby we do not know was to say or not say to a depressed person as we don’t want to worsen the situation. “We should be mindful of the type of conversation we bring up, we must avoid asking uncomfortable questions such as relationships, marriage, divorce or personal grief and do not force issues.
“The expression of negative judgement and opinions about mental health, treatments and so on must be avoided at all times. We must be willing to talk if they want to open up about their feelings and extend an ear to let them know that they have our support. Ask them how you can offer your company even of it is something as simple,” he added.
