How to guide people with depression psychologically

To guide people with depression, it is necessary to adopt methods such as listening, accompanying, encouraging medical treatment, avoiding preaching, and guiding positive activities. Depression may be related to genetic factors, environmental stress, neurotransmitter imbalances, traumatic experiences, chronic diseases, and other factors. It usually manifests as symptoms such as low mood, decreased interest, sleep disorders, changes in appetite, and suicidal tendencies.

1. Listening

Patient listening is the foundation of helping patients with depression. Do not interrupt or rush to give advice, allow the other party to fully express their feelings. Depressed patients often have self doubt, and understanding can be conveyed through nodding and brief responses while listening. Avoid using instructional language on how to wait, and focus on making the other person feel accepted. If the patient mentions suicidal thoughts, they should immediately contact a professional institution for intervention.

2. Companionship

Regular companionship can alleviate loneliness, but it is necessary to respect the patient's wishes. Fixed time meetings or remote contacts can be arranged, with low-intensity activities such as walking or watching relaxing movies and TV shows. Avoid excessive activity during companionship and maintain a calm and stable attitude. Pay attention to observing the patient's basic physiological status such as diet and sleep, and assist in seeking medical attention if serious abnormalities are found.

3. Encourage medical treatment

Clearly inform that depression is a disease that can be improved through professional treatment. Accompany the patient to the psychiatric department for treatment and assist in recording symptom details for the doctor's reference. Drug treatments such as sertraline tablets, fluoxetine capsules, and mirtazapine tablets take several weeks to take effect, eliminating fear of medication. Cognitive behavioral therapy and other psychological interventions need to be consistently completed throughout the entire course of treatment.

Fourth, avoid preaching.

It is strictly prohibited to use negative language such as being open-minded or being too fragile. Patients with depression are unable to control their symptoms through willpower, and it is said that the church exacerbates self blame emotions. You can use empathy expressions such as' I understand how painful you are now 'and' It's not your fault 'instead. Do not make moral judgments on the negative thoughts exhibited by patients, but guide attention to specific and actionable small goals.

Fifth, guide active activities

Gradually introduce mild activities based on the patient's physical condition, such as taking care of potted plants, simple cooking, and other behaviors that can generate a sense of accomplishment. Sunlight exposure can help improve mood and encourage short-term outdoor exposure to nature every day. Group activities should be carefully selected, prioritizing supportive groups over gatherings with high social pressure. Give specific affirmation instead of general praise after the activity.

can assist patients in establishing a regular daily routine, ensuring sufficient sleep but avoiding day night inversion. Pay attention to supplementing nutrients such as deep-sea fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids and whole grains of vitamin B family in diet. Mild exercises such as yoga and tai chi can help alleviate physical symptoms, but the intensity needs to be adjusted according to physical strength. Important reminder: If you discover a risk of self injury or suicide, you must immediately seek medical attention or contact the psychological crisis intervention hotline. In long-term support, attention should be paid to one's own emotional exhaustion, and caregivers should also seek psychological counseling regularly.