How can i support someone with depression?
Hello lovely community.
(trigger warning)
One of my closest friends was diagnosed with depression two years ago, went to a clinic and got theraphy ( we didnt knew each other back then).
She is still in theraphy and always says she feels better then two years ago.
The thing is, i know she is still hurting. I know that when shes at home, she feels alone and sad.
Now her boyfrind broke her heart and i know shes feeling bad again. She also relapsed with self harming, after she was clean for over six months.
I dont really know what to do or how to help her. I spend lots of time with her to get her mind off things, and i feel like she enjoyes that, but when shes at home again she feels depressed ... she knows she has my support, she can always call me at night or i can distract her but i dont know if theres anything else i can do for her. Does someone know how i can be a great friend for her and give her the support she needs?
Thanks a lot and wishing everyone a good day!
@dynamicHemlock1736
Speaking as someone with severe depression, you can only do so much. You don't need to be a caretaker or a therapist, you just have to be a friend. Be open and talk about it; ask her what she needs from you.
My suggestion would be to check in on her once in a while (every day if you can) and ask how she's doing. Depression makes it hard to get up and go, maybe you can invite her out for a walk or a picnic or something. Make sure that you never sacrifice your own wellbeing just because you feel bad for her, that doesn't help anyone.
