You may want to look into how depression and anxiety often go together and what that looks like. For more information about anxiety check out How to Recognize Social Anxiety Disorder, How to Overcome Anxiety. How to Diagnose Depression may help you identify signs of depression as well.
Notice any patterns of stress or withdrawal that the individual shows as an early sign. You can also learn to anticipate symptoms. For example, if someone is about to move and start a new job, you may anticipate stress and unease and help your loved one to cope with stress before depression or anxiety symptoms pop up.
Contact the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988 via phone or text. You can call emergency services if the person is making threats of violence against themselves or others, has made a suicide plan, or you have other reason to believe they may be ready to attempt suicide. In dire circumstances, you can take the person to the emergency department at your local hospital or check them into a behavioral health unit/facility for crisis care.
You can say, “I’ve noticed you’ve been struggling more than usual, and I want you to know that I care about you. ” Remind this person that it’s okay to talk about mental health and daily struggles. No one should suffer alone.
Ask if the person is receiving treatment. If not, offer to help find a therapist or to go to a mental health center on your university campus.
You can express your desire to help by setting up appointments with a medical doctor or psychologist, going with your loved one to appointments, or checking in after appointments. If someone resists treatment, figure out why they don’t want therapy. Sometimes people are embarrassed or ashamed of wanting or needing help. Even if your loved one continues to resist, assure them that you care and if things change, you are willing to help find treatment. [7] X Trustworthy Source HelpGuide Nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free, evidence-based mental health and wellness resources. Go to source
If this individual struggles with isolation, make a social goal of getting together with family and/or friends once a week. This can include activities such as movie nights, bowling, or going to dinner.
Lead by example by modeling a healthy lifestyle of your own. [10] X Trustworthy Source HelpGuide Nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free, evidence-based mental health and wellness resources. Go to source Discourage substance use. Using alcohol or drugs is not the way to cope with stress. Additionally, substances can worsen symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Be gentle in your approach. Instead of saying, “It seems like you’re anxious and depressed today” say, “You seem to be more on edge than usual. Is there something upsetting you or causing you stress?”
It’s not helpful to say, “Just smile. ” Instead say, “I notice you’re really down today. I’m sorry you feel bad. ”
Resist your urge to problem solve and “fix” the person. Be compassionate in listening and responding to the person.
You may find a balance between pushing and being patient through trial and error. Focus on how your loved one responds to both circumstances and when one is more appropriate over the other.
