I'm Still Human: Understanding Depression With Kindness (Expanded Edition - 2021)

• 2. Try to understand depression as much as possible. Recall the
occasional periods of sadness and lack of motivation in your life.
Amplify that 10 times – that’s probably how it feels to have
depression as an illness. When we understand, we’ll be able to care
more effectively.
• 3. Gently remind them to take medications and do whatever
necessary to get well, e.g. engage in more activities, read about
depression, eat healthy food, and go for clinic follow-ups.
• 4. Spend time with and accompany them for their activities, e.g.
exercise, a walk in the park, buying things from the market. Don’t
just tell them to do it; invite them to do it with you and give plenty
of encouragement with every slight progress.
• 5. Offer practical support, e.g. cooking, cleaning the house, giving
a lift to the clinic, settling the bills, taking care of children, collecting
medicines, etc.
• 6. Don’t compulsively give advice, “Try this/that…don’t do
this/that…must do this/that…” Though with good intentions, you’ll
probably make him/her feel more confused and helpless. Be a good
listener - explore their concerns and empathise, before offering
suggestions.
108