Depression Support Group
Depression is a real and debilitating condition that is often misunderstood by family and friends. Its meaning can range from a prolonged period of sadness to an actual mental illness with specific symptoms. Find and share experiences with others who are going through the same struggles.
1. Stay away from anything that would hurt or harm you- Please discard it or ask your family, friend or the person to hide it or get rid of it so you visually cannot see it.
2. Tell others- Family, friends and those who you trust to help you and to keep you safe. For example, you can say “I have been feeling…,
3. When you feel, you want to give up say this- “I will continue to hold on no matter how long it takes”
4. What is your level of risk for suicide- low, moderate or high. For example, do you have just thoughts?. Or do you also have a plan?. Please tell someone asap if you have a plan and make sure you stay with a friend or family member and that you are not left alone.
5. Get professional help- if this is possible a local therapist in your area, free online therapy websites (research these) Call a crisis line, locate a treatment center
6. Follow up with treatment- if you are seeking professional help please continue to seek this and take medication if it is prescribed. If the medicine has side effects discuss this with your doctor and she/he can come up with a solution or a medicine that works best for you.
7. Keep yourself around others- family, friends for support and etc
8. Remember your health- healthy diet, plenty of sleep, at least 15 minutes of sunlight a day to boost your mood and exercise this relieves stress and promotes healthy well-being.
9. Make a safety plan- Try to follow some steps to help you. For example, avoid the triggers such as, anniversary of a loss, stress from relationships and etc. 1. Make a commitment to stay arounds others or have others to check on you. 2. Stay away from anything that would harm you and remove it or have someone to remove it. 3. Make a contact list of numbers for yourself, doctor, friends and family. In case of emergency and you call these numbers if you need them and have them contact others.
10. Continue your support even after you are better.