How to help family member with depression?
My fiance has been struggling with anxiety his whole life and has been increasingly depressed lately because his father was just diagnosed with cancer. I believe he is open to getting help from a counselor. Just seeing if there is advice on how I can help him when I'm with him. Any tips?
The best advice I can give is to listen. Be the person that he knows will hold no judgment, and no criticism. Be the safe place he can go if he needs to talk or if he just needs a shoulder.
If you would like to know more about anxiety and/or depression, I'm sure there are several books you can find either at a local library or you can buy online. Try to look for books that are made specifically for the loved ones of those with anxiety and depression. I imagine those would help you the most because that's what best fits your situation.
I'm sorry that I can't give you more pointers. Anxiety and depression aren't the same for anyone so I can't really give you specific advice other than what I just mentioned.
I do applaud you and your fiancé for considering a counselor. Try to find one that he really connects with and don't be discouraged if the first one you speak to doesn't really jive with him. Keep trying until he finds one he clicks with. This should help him get the most therapy has to offer. Good luck!
