any suggestions on how 2 deal with a family relative who has been depressed for 2 years?

Question

i can't take it anymore, i try 2 help but......idk we used 2 b really good friends

Answer 1

I had dysthemia for a few years and it worsened into major recurrent depression (suicidal). The several doctors, therapists, and medications did little or nothing. Finally, I read a book that helped me overcome depression and taught me how to live life to the fullest. It's called: "The Feeling Good Handbook" by Dr. David Burns, MD.

My story:
http://www.geocities.com/seabulls69/AntidepressantThatWorks.html

'nuff said?

Answer 2

If this person has been Depressed for 2 years,then this a Medical Problem. Your talking and reassurance,is doing nothing. (In other words),you can't get to the root of the problem. Depression can either be a mental are emotional problem,and only a Therapist can make a diagonsis. If you have suggested seeing a Therapist,and the person has refused,then they don't want the help. They want to burden YOU with it. (Now) If the person has seen a Therapist,then going to the sessions,and taking any medication,prescribed for Depression, should work. You will soon become Depressed,if you continue to let this person dump all of their problems and emotions,on you.

Answer 3

Take them dancing? (Sorry, I'm a danceaholic.) I heard on the radio that exercising 3 times a week can be as good as antidepressant medication. For older info check web md.

If you can't get them to dance with you, encourage them to take a walk with you. Go shopping together, you cover a lot of ground that way, just remember to focus on the stuff they like, cloths, china, whatever. Be positive.

For example; "that's really nice, but..." that but is not positive, no buts.

Oh, I'm sorry you've probably tried all that. I got an Idea... try saying "I really feel down because I miss what we used to do together, could you cheer me up and go with me to the..." someplace that you used to go together, something that gets the body moving. If you're down, they can relate very well.

I'm glad that you haven't given up. People like you are what keeps this world happy. All you can do is make the world happier, one smile at a time.

Answer 4

Tell the relative how his/her depression and loss of relationship hurts you. Tell him that you want to help but there's nothing you can do if he won't help himself. Try to get it thru his head that he needs to get professional help and that there is nothing shameful or weak about it. It is an illness. Offer to be there to help him help himself. If he won't seek help, just try to be available if he reaches out to you.

Depression is a horrible illness. Try not to walk completely away. Your friend is isolating himself, and that is a viscious circle that leads to more depression.

Answer 5

Find a psychologist and/or psychiatrist who specializes in dysthymia.

A little info about dysthymia:
Dysthymia is a less severe version of major depression yet it is more chronic. One of the diagnostic criteria for a diagnosis of dysthymia is a prolonged period of depression that lasts for more than two years.

Hopefully this link will be pertinent...
http://www.psychnet-uk.com/dsm_iv/dysthymic_disorder.htm

Answer 6

Get him to his family doctor and tell his family doctor hes been depressed.The doctor will precribe a medication,and refer him to a mental health clinic for counselling, there they have a psychiatric doctor to treat him with his depression.

Answer 7

talk to them about getting depression pills it works ive been on them for a couple years now. good luck

Answer 8

I can tell you what I did to help my cousin get free of his depression. I rolled one up for him.

Answer 9

leave literature laying around about depression and what to do about it. Make sure they see it

Answer 10

Offer your help. be available. Be on about your business.