Help yourself

If a member of your family or a close friend is suffering from depression, it will affect you and those around you.

Do you need support?

It takes patience, understanding and knowledge to be a relative or carer of someone suffering from depression. In order to give the necessary support, you may find that you need help and support too.

 

Taking care of yourself
When you find yourself getting angry or frustrated:

• Try not to overreact. Take a step back and think about the issues.
• Remember the importance of this relationship, whether a child or spouse or friend.
• Ask people close to you to support you.
• Ask someone else to help you provide support
• Make sure you don’t lose yourself in their depression. Do things for yourself, maintain your exercise routines, hobbies and friendships
• Get professional help if you need to.

 

It can be useful to share your difficulties and experiences with others. There are organisations you can contact such as Carers Australia