Depression can be difficult to overcome. People with depression often lack the will or energy to take action on their own. That makes your love and support important.

• Encourage the person to get treatment. This is the most important thing you can do. Proper treatment ( medications, psychotherapy, etc.) can help the person overcome depression. Help the person stick with his or her treatment plan.
  
• Try not to blame the person. Being depressed is not his or her fault.
  
  
• Offer emotional support. Allow the person to share his or her feelings. Listen carefully. Point out negative or distorted thinking without sounding critical.
  
  
• Try not to criticize the person. This may only reinforce the person's negative thinking and worsen the depression.
  
  
• Don't tell the person to "snap out of it." A depressed person can't "snap out of it," no matter how hard he or she tries.
  
  
• Don't accuse the person of faking it.
  
  
• Encourage the person to be active. Exercise and activity can help improve the person's mood.
  
  
• Show you care. Take time to go for a walk or eat a meal with the person. Ask how you can best help.
  
  
• Don't take it personally. A depressed person may say things he or she doesn't mean. If the person is a spouse or mate, don't feel rejected if he or she doesn't want a sexual relationship. Depression can reduce desire.
  
  REMEMBER ó It is normal for caregivers to feel frustration or lose patience from time to time. If this happens, take some time for yourself. Forgive yourself, and take care of your needs.

SOURCES OF HELP

• Try talking to clergy.
• Your health care practitioner,
• EAP can provide a referral for counseling, and can be reached at 464-5760.

You can also contact:

In an emergency, call 911

CONTACT is a 24-hour hotline for counseling and referrals... they can be reached at 251-0600

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