Family & Friends

They were very instrumental in my recovery. Even though, they upset me and said things that irritated me from time to time, I'm very thankful for understanding family and friends.

Everyone needs someone. It is part of who we are created to be. Many people feel they have no one to turn to. I felt that way at times, but know deep down I could call or text and someone would be there.

At times especially early on, I was mean to those who loved me the most. I felt misunderstood, upset and felt I didn't understand myself. I felt horrible the way I treated my family and friends at times.

It was family who encouraged me to go to the doctor. It was my wife who took me screaming and kicking to the first counselor appointment. It was friends who prayed and encouraged me as I made strides in combatting my depression and anxiety. Our friends and family know when we are

not ourselves. We need to trust them.

In some cases my family and friends didn’t know how to help. They just loved me. They loved me when I didn’t really love myself. It's important to note: You can't love someone out of their depression.

Depression has the potential to break families apart. If you are suffering from depression it is important to communicate your needs with your family. Sometimes families aren’t there enough, other times they try to be there too much. Only you can communicate the right balance to

them.

The website Psych Central provides a variety of practical tips in supporting someone with depression.