It’s hard to see someone you are close to falling into depression, especially when you have experienced the same thing. You want to be there for them, but you also don’t want to be dragged deeper into depression. So, how do you be a supportive friend while also still making sure you are taking care of yourself? Here are some helpful ways to talk to someone with depression when you also struggle with it too.
If you have also battled with depression, it is much easier to spot the signs of a friend or family member who might be going down the same route. Thus, it is important to let that person know that you are there for them and are always there to listen. It might even be easier for them to talk to you if you have been through a similar thing. It’s nice to know that someone understands what you are going through. Be honest and open with them about your journey with depression if they ask. However if you know something they say is triggering to you, take a step back and let them know that you are there for them always, but it is hard for you to discuss that particular subject because you aren’t ready at that moment. Taking care of your friends is important, but so is taking care of yourself. You can’t take care of someone else without caring for yourself first. It is easy to be brought back into depression when someone you are close to is going through it, so just remember to keep continuing on your own recovery and doing the things you normally do that bring you joy.
But you may be wondering what happens if a friend is talking to you about suicidal thoughts or threatening to hurt themselves? At that point you should suggest some methods of support for that person to reach out to. They may be your friend but if someone is telling you that they want to hurt themselves, it is best to tell them to reach out to places that will provide them with the support they probably need at the moment. As much as you want to help, there are some things that you can’t handle all by yourself especially when you are trying to deal with your own depression at the same time. If you are really concerned you can always reach out to one of their family members and tell them what is going on and that you are worried about your friend. Sometimes people are afraid to reach out for help when they are struggling with depression, so let them know that it’s okay to need extra support sometimes and maybe mention your experience with getting support for your mental health. You can give them as many numbers or people to reach out to, but then it is really up to them to realize that getting help is what they want.
As someone who has struggled with mental health for a while, it is really difficult for me to talk with a friend going through the same thing. I always want to make sure my friend is getting enough support. However, one of the most important things I’ve realized is that you are just helping by being there for them and telling them you care about them and how much you appreciate having them in your lives. It may not sound like much but just knowing that they have a friend that knows how difficult it is and how much they love you, will make them feel supported and even more encouraged to get the help they need.