Maintaining a Friendship with a Depressed Friend

A Guide to Providing Social Support

The trends in clinical depression statistics are frightening. The Australian Government is now suggesting that in today's world, everyone at some point will be affected by depression, whether the suffering is their own or someone else's. And research appears to back this claim up. Surprisingly, a study published in Psychiatric Services in 2004 lists pre-schoolers as the fastest-growing market for antidepressants. Assuming this trend is continues, it will soon be imperative for us as a society to develop the social skills necessary to befriend those who are suffering.

So, how can you do something to maintain your friendship with a depressed friend? How can you befriend a depressed person without allowing their depression to affect your own mental health? What are some mental attitudes and societal pressures which could increase the suffering of a depressed person? All of these are very important questions that we may soon need to know.

Encourage Your Friend to Seek Professional Help

Although the statistics of depression are increasing to alarming rates, the National Mental Health Association reported that in 2004, over 50% of the population believes that depression is a personal weakness. This social stigma is a contributing factor to why an overwhelming majority of people suffering from clinical depression do not seek help. Unfortunately, this lack of support during a difficult season may prove deadly to some. Therefore, the first step to being a supportive friend to someone suffering from depression is to help them recognize it and motivate them to seek help. Talk to them and show them how much you enjoy their friendship and explain that you only want them to be able to experience happiness again. If they offer excuses, do whatever you can to dispel the stigma they are afraid of and help them reach out to get professional help.

Provide Support During Treatment