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How do you go about telling your loved ones about your battle with depression?

17 Answers
Last Updated: 03/06/2018 at 6:01pm
1 Tip to Feel Better
United States
Moderated by

Brenda King, PsyD

Psychologist

I treat life changes, women’s issues, and issues of aging using evidence-based treatments with healthy doses of warmth, empathy and humor to enhance healing and growth.

Top Rated Answers
JDust
January 22nd, 2015 8:43pm
Simplest answer would be: At your own pace. I would go about telling only the people you feel comfortable with talking to, and only tell them what parts you feel comfortable discussing, as well as what they might be comfortable hearing (it's not necessary for a 10 year old sibling to hear about self harm, for example). If you worry that certain loved ones may not understand depression, you can show them resources that explain depression to help them better understand that you're not "just sad". Also, most people that I've told have asked how they can help, so have a response prepared for that, too - Whether you just want them to be there if you need them, or if you want to spend more time with them, etc. This will help them feel more at ease after they learn what you have been going through, and you will feel better knowing that they are there to help.
zoeyglee
April 3rd, 2015 5:19pm
Sometimes it can be really scary! Being straight up with them is the easiest way to go about the situation. Getting it over with fast, and just telling them the truth is the easiest way to be done with the problem and nervousness involved with telling your loved ones.
Callum4659
August 1st, 2016 11:41am
telling your loved ones something like that is very difficult. you want your loved ones to think you are this strong independent person and sometimes we get scared that they will think poorly of you because your not. your loved ones are there to love and support you so just keep in mind that if you do tell them in a clear way and tell them what your feeling they will help you through it.
Apanda
December 7th, 2015 10:02pm
When we battle depression, having a support network is very important. But sometimes we feel like we don't want to burden others. It's good to talk to them privately, ask them if it's ok for you to share something you're struggling with. Then be very honest. Talk about what you experience, how often, and how if affects you. Tell them your concerns, and thank them for their patience. Many people are going to want to know how they can help. Work together to find a plan that works for everyone.
shadeofblue741
March 6th, 2018 6:01pm
You lay it out as it is, explain what you're going through and how long you've been going through it and how hard it has been for you to do it alone and by opening up, you're asking for support or at least understanding because living with depression isn't easy and you need all the help you can get. Most people have trouble understanding or even acknowledging mental illness, so try and be patient with them and use comparisons to get through to them because what you're going through is hard to understand for some people as they hadn't been in that situation.
Anonymous
November 7th, 2017 2:23am
Sit them down and have a serious heart to heart conversation with them. The words you say don't matter. Just get the message out so that they know how to help you.
Anonymous
July 12th, 2016 12:21am
You have to be honest with them and let them know how you feel. I would recommend telling the family member or friend you are closest and feel most comfortable with.
Anonymous
June 20th, 2016 5:59am
Find a good time, and start slow. Talk to them about it in your own comfortable pace. They will always listen, patiently and focused. They will support you no matter what. They love you, and because they do, they will always be by your side, through good times, or times that aren't the best.
LemonSea
May 2nd, 2016 12:27pm
You start by being honest. It is important to be calm, respectful and honest. Ask for the support that you need, and consider explaining things in a rational way. Discuss this with your family when you are feeling calm, so that they can help you when it gets difficult.
Anonymous
March 7th, 2016 12:32pm
To be honest, love, your loved ones will care the most. A while ago, I told my aunt about it and she cried and comforted me. Some people feel more comforted when they are reaching their loved one through a text or maybe a call. Call one person from your family who you feel most comfortable with and tell them. Tell them that you need their help, that you constantly feel upset and depressed, and that you need their help. They will understand, you only need to tell one person and you'll see a change of reactions and effect of this one conversation throughout your family. xxx goodluck sweetie.
Anonymous
March 1st, 2016 10:11pm
I would suggest to first talk to a doctor about depression, as a doctor can send you to counselling course which may be very helpful for you. Secondly, I would tell a close member of your family, someone who you can trust, and tell them that you have spoken to a doctor about your depression and then tell them what the doctor has told you to ensure that they do not worry.
Blossemfall
February 2nd, 2016 4:02pm
Just. Do. It. If you don't tell them then they can't help you and they will never understand. And if they don't understand your battle then it can end very badly. Your loved ones NEED to know this. Don't bottle it up. Let people help you.
Anonymous
November 30th, 2015 3:21am
Be very serious with them, let them know exactly how you feel and if you need someone to talk to, let them know that too.
BluSparkles
June 30th, 2015 1:12am
I sit with them, and tell them to listen and only speak when I finish.I tell them to try to understand me , and what I need is most now is support.
viralsmiles127
June 17th, 2015 3:47pm
I normally just start with a bit of soft talk until we go into a deep convo about my problem, just be honest about everything I ask them their support & understanding until I resolve my issues.
heavenlySun21
May 3rd, 2015 2:47am
I would and have, written them a letter. that way you can get it all out without saying the wrong thing. You can't erase your words but you can your writing!
LondonGirl22
April 10th, 2015 12:08pm
Be very open whilst also reminding them that this affects a lot of people worldwide and it's not something they've done.