If someone you know is dealing with depression, it can be difficult to know what to say. You may want to offer words of comfort and support, but sometimes the wrong things can be said. In this blog post, South Coast Community Services will discuss some phrases that should be avoided when talking to people who are depressed. We hope that this information will help you to support your loved ones during their time of need.
Don't Trivialize Their Suffering
One of the worst things you can do when talking to someone with depression is to trivialize their suffering. This can be done in a number of ways, such as telling them that they "just need to cheer up" or that their depression is "not a big deal." This invalidates their feelings and minimizes the severity of their condition.
Don't Blame Them
Another thing to avoid saying is anything that could be construed as blame. For example, you might say something like "You just need to pull yourself together" or "What's wrong with you?" This will only make the person feel worse about themselves. Instead, try to offer solutions and resources that can help them get through this tough time.
Avoid Joking About the Issue
It's important to be sensitive when talking about depression. This means avoiding anything that could be seen as a joke, such as telling the person to "just smile more" or asking if they're "sure they're not just overreacting." These comments can be hurtful and make it difficult for the person to open up about their feelings.
Don't Provide Harmful or Revenge-Driven Solutions
When someone is struggling with depression, they may be vulnerable and desperate for help. This can make them susceptible to harmful or revenge-driven solutions, such as telling them to hurt themselves or get over it by drinking alcohol. These suggestions will only make the person's condition worse.
Learn More About Depression and Help Those You Love!
If you're not sure what to say to someone who is depressed, it's best to avoid saying anything that could be hurtful or dismissive. Instead, try to offer support and resources that can help them get through this tough time. If you're concerned about someone's wellbeing, please don't hesitate to reach out to a professional for help.