When someone is depressed, the best way to increase their chances of getting better is by giving them as much support as possible. Unfortunately, not everyone dealing with depression is lucky enough to get help from their friends, family, or the people close to them. When you have unsupportive family and friends, you may blame yourself for the situation and even find it challenging to get better. So, what do you do if you lack support when dealing with depression? Here are things to do when depressed.
Take Care of Yourself
It is easy to blame and neglect yourself when no one around you is supportive. However, the best way to start getting better and probably start getting support is by taking care of yourself. Focus on getting better. Be gentle to yourself and always say positive things about yourself. If you don’t take good care of yourself, you will be more depressed and anxious. So, take a shower every day and enjoy it. Read a book, go out to movies, talk to other friends, watch a movie, massage, take naps, etc.
Seek Professional Help
Part of dealing with depression is seeking professional help. Remember, therapy is the best treatment to get you out of the situation and get on track. You can go for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in London to help you change your thinking pattern and how you approach life onward. You can also join support groups to share ideas and get support from people in the same situation or who have gotten better.
Accept That Not Everyone Understands
It is easy to assume that you should be the center of attention when going through something like this. However, you need to understand that people have reasons why they behave the way they behave. Not everyone understands your situation, and not everyone understands your vulnerability. One thing you should realize is that their behavior has nothing to do with you.
Differentiate Facts from Misconceptions
There are numerous misconceptions surrounding depression, and if you believe them, you may lose focus on getting better and assume something is wrong with you. Being depressed does not mean you are lazy or weak. Asking for help when depressed is not attention-seeking. So, please educate yourself about depression and don’t believe the myths surrounding it.
Ask for Help When You Need It
Some people might not even know what you are going through or whether you need help until you ask for it. So, don’t be afraid to ask for help. You might be surprised that some people are willing to help. Someone may not know you are not doing well because they are used to you being the strong one. So, ask for help directly, and you might get the support you need.
Understand That Others Have Struggles Too
It is also crucial to understand that people go through things too and their lack of support is simply because they cannot be actively there for you. For instance, your friend could also be going through depression and not tell you about it. Therefore, don’t get disappointed when they cannot help. Go through healing on your own and try to check up on them too.
Bottom Line
Lack of support from family or friends when dealing with depression can make it difficult to cope. However, there are many things you can do to help yourself. Understand that people have issues, too, and learn to ask for help. Don’t assume people know how you are doing or should be there for you. Most importantly, seek professional help.
