Sometimes we're closer to our friends than our family. This is the importance of friendship in our life. So, How to Help a Friend with Depression?
DOs:
1. Spend time listening (not judging) to them talk about their experiences
2. Suggest they see someone that can help them. Go with them, if possible
3. Encourage them to exercise and eat well
4. Encourage them to be involved in social activities
5. Let them know (set a time) when is a good time for them to talk to you so that you can give full attention
6. It's okay to say "I can't talk right now" (do no.5) or "I'm sorry, I don't know how to help you... but I can listen"
DON'Ts:
1. Assume the problem will just go away
2. Tell them they're okay and there's not really wrong or serious
3. Pressure them to be "Positive" or "Think Positive"
4. Stay away or avoid them (when you know full well that they are depressed)
5. Tell them to pray harder or have more faith
_________
But REMEMBER!:
a) Take care of yourself
b) Healing often takes a long process
c) Get advice and support from others (you don't have to do this alone)
Scripture reading: Isaiah 53:1-5, "He was whipped so we could be healed" #ServeToLead #DepressionIsDefeated
