Seeing a loved one struggle with depression can make us feel hopeless, and without the right information and tools, we can feel helpless, too. That is why it is important to get a better understanding of how to talk to a loved one about depression. Equipped with this information, we are much more likely to be able to both spot depression in a loved one, as well as act when the time is needed.
How to Talk to a Loved One About Depression
It can understandably feel scary when we think about talking to a loved one about depression. Many questions arise, like, “What if I’m wrong and it isn’t depression? What if they resent me for asking? What can I do if it is depression? And who am I to ask anyway?” The reality is that if we don’t step up and ask, who will? We may be the ones who save their lives.
That’s right. Depression can be a life-or-death disease, and it is a disease. It is not some type of moral failing or choice. Many people struggle with depression because it is genetic or they have external circumstances that are out of their control.
Many people struggling with depression are also embarrassed about what they are dealing with. They don’t yet understand that there is nothing to be embarrassed about. Also, they don’t know how to reach out. This makes reaching out to them as a loved one all the more crucial.
Better Understanding Depression
Many people use the term “depression” but are not exactly sure of what it is. First off, it’s important to understand that depression is a lot more than simply being sad. It is more like an emotional sadness that lingers, regardless of the circumstances. This is why people who seemingly have all of the external advantages of life can still struggle with depression.
So, what exactly is depression? According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), “Depression (also called major depressive disorder or clinical depression) is different. It can cause severe symptoms that affect how you feel, think, and handle daily activities, such as sleeping, eating, or working. It is an illness that can affect anyone—regardless of age, race, income, culture, or education.”
Depression also affects millions of people worldwide, making it one of the most common mental illnesses affecting people today. According to the NIMH, “An estimated 21.0 million adults in the United States had at least one major depressive episode. This number represented 8.3% of all U.S. adults. The prevalence of major depressive episode was higher among adult females (10.3%) compared to males (6.2%).”
More About Depression: Who Struggles?
Now, as previously mentioned, anyone can struggle with depression. It does not matter if you are rich or poor, how you identify, or if you are younger or older.
Yet, there are some signifiers that may make you more susceptible to depression. One of the biggest ones is the use of alcohol or drugs. Yes, depression commonly co-occurs with addiction.
Also, people with alcohol use disorder (AUD) or substance use disorder (SUD) tend to struggle with more severe depressive symptoms. According to the International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction, “People with major depressive disorder and comorbid substance use disorder suffer from greater depression severity, worse illness course, poorer recovery rates from both disorders, and increased frequency of suicide attempts. According to a recent systematic review and meta-analysis, the prevalence of any substance use disorder in individuals with MDD was 0.250. Maximum prevalence was found with alcohol use disorder, followed by illicit drug disorder and cannabis use disorder.”
More About Depression: Effective Recovery Options for All
The good news is that there are many effective recovery options for individuals who struggle with depression. Many people with depression find relief in pharmacology, such as the use of antidepressants. However, while they may be vital, one should not rely on these drugs alone. Other modalities should be taken advantage of.
Many people struggling with depression find that psychotherapy like cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) can be extremely beneficial. This is because these therapies get to the underlying issues that often cause depression, such as instances of trauma.
Holistic healing methods can also be very helpful in treating depression in the long term. These are methods like yoga therapy and mindfulness meditation. The practices can offer mental clarity, a reduction in racing thoughts, physical wellness, serenity, and emotional balance. The key is to find a series of treatments that are effective and stick with them.
A Focus on Long-Term Success at Lantana Recovery
Here at Lantana Recovery, we believe in long-term success over short-term “fixes.” This is why all of our recovery plans are individualized and comprehensive, with a focus on the future.
Depression does not need to rule your life anymore. If you are sick and tired of being sick and tired, then the time to recover once and for all is now. You can do this! We can help.
Depression affects millions of people every day. This includes both the individuals who are struggling, as well as their loved ones. There is a reason why mental illnesses like depression are referred to as “family diseases.” It affects everyone involved. The good news is that there are great recovery options for everyone. If you feel like you or a loved one is struggling with issues of addiction, mental illness, or both, we can help get you on the positive path toward long-term recovery right away. You don’t have to go through this process alone. For more information about depression and recovery options, please reach out to Lantana Recovery today at (866) 997-2870.
