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Depression can feel like an endless tunnel of darkness, leaving you isolated and struggling to find your way out.

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But you don't have to navigate this journey alone. Reaching out to someone when you're experiencing depression can be a lifeline, offering support, understanding, and a glimmer of hope.

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Learn how you can reach out to a friend, family member, or professional about your feelings of depression and take the first step toward getting better.

Did you know?

Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses. It's estimated that about 5% of adults around the world experience depression.

Step 1: Recognize the Need

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Acknowledging that you're dealing with depression is a significant first step. When you notice persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or a lack of interest in activities you once enjoyed, it's a sign that it's time to seek help.

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  • Loss of interest or pleasure in activities you used to enjoy

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  • Change in sleep patterns (e.g., trouble falling/staying asleep or excessive sleep)

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  • Increase or decrease in appetite/weight

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  • Fatigue and lack of energy

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  • Difficulty concentrating

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  • Feelings of guilt or worthlessness

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  • Physical symptoms (e.g., headaches, stomach problems, pain)

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  • Suicidal thoughts

Did you know?

Of those who seek treatment for depression, approximately 80% experience a reduction in symptoms within 4 to 6 weeks. Despite this, almost two-thirds of people living with depression don't seek or receive proper treatment.

Step 2: Choose the Right Person

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Selecting the right person to reach out to is crucial. Opt for someone who is compassionate, understanding, and who you feel comfortable talking to about your feelings.

Make a list of people you could reach out to for support. The list could include a:

  • close friend

  • family member

  • partner

  • mental health professional

Step 3: Choose the Right Time and Place

Timing matters. Seek a quiet and comfortable space where you can have an uninterrupted conversation. Both you and the person you're reaching out to should have sufficient time to discuss your feelings.

You could meet:

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  • At home

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  • In a quiet restaurant/cafe

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  • For a nature walk

Step 4: Open the Conversation

Starting the conversation can be daunting, but remember that your feelings are valid.

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Begin with a gentle approach, such as saying, "I've been struggling with my emotions lately, and I think I might be dealing with depression." This sets the tone for an open and honest discussion.

Step 5: Share Your Feelings

Describe your experiences and feelings honestly. Share specific symptoms you've noticed, like changes in sleep patterns, appetite, or energy levels.

Even if you're not able to express why you are feeling this way, it is OK to simply let them know that you're not OK.

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For example, you might say:

  • "I've been feeling really down and overwhelmed lately. I don't think I'm OK."

  • "I have trouble getting out of bed in the morning and I find it hard to motivate myself to do even simple tasks, like brushing my teeth or having a shower."

  • "I have recurring thoughts about hurting myself."

Step 6: Ask for Support

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Let the person know how they can help you. You may want to express that you're not asking them to "solve the problem," but seeking a space to share.

Tell them how they can best support you, be it:

  • lending an empathetic ear

  • helping you to seek professional help

  • accompanying you to appointments

  • offering practical assistance (e.g., buying groceries, cooking meals, regularly checking in, etc.)

Step 7: Educate Them

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Not everyone knows about depression, and that's okay. You can help them understand by sharing some resources. Send them an article or video that explains what depression is and how it feels. This can open up their eyes to your experience.

Some resources you could share include:

Quiz

For the past few months, a high school student named Louis has been experiencing depression and wants to reach out to someone for support. What steps should he take to do this?

Take Action

Reaching out for help when you're facing depression is a brave and important step. Remember, you're not a burden for opening up about your feelings. The right people will want to support you through the tough times.

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Check out the list below for more actions you can take to start your journey to better mental health.

License:

This Byte has been authored by

SO

Sean Ogle

Educator Transitioning to Learning Design Field

English

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