How to Deal With a Depressed Parent
How to Deal With a Depressed Parent
Having a parent who is suffering from depression can be a difficult situation to live in. Depending on your own age, there may be very little you can do, personally, to help, but here are some things which may help you to deal with having a depressed parent. But remember, your own health always comes first.
Research information that can help you cope, your health is the #1 priority.
Look for adults who you trust to share your concerns with. These may be other close relatives, or other people who you can turn to. Some may include these:
- Grandparents, if they are available to talk discretely with.
- Clergy, if you are a member of a religious group.
- Teachers or counselors at your school.
- Uncles or Aunts if you are close to them.
Try to understand your parent's situation. Depression is a complicated condition, and can be caused or contributed to by many conditions. Look for signs that will help you see what may be contributing to your parent's condition, such as these:
- Grief caused by loss, such as the death of a loved one.
- Drug or alcohol abuse.
- Failure to achieve goals, whether being able to pay bills each month, or to meet standards set by society and cultural influences.
Help around the home. A depressed parent may not be able to deal with ordinary household tasks as efficiently as a person who is not depressed, and you may be able to help relieve some of the stress of their condition by being helpful around the house. Some examples of household tasks even a relatively young child can do might be these:
- Keeping the home neat by picking up your toys and clothes.
- Helping clear the dinner table and washing dishes.
- Doing laundry, if you are able to do so.
- Taking messages on the phone, so the parent is able to rest or relax.
Offer to help with preparing supper, getting the parent some type of refreshment, or otherwise trying to be directly helpful to them.
Talk to the parent. Ask the victim of depression if you can help them. Don't use accusing language, or imply there is something wrong, but be honest of your concern for him/her.
Avoid arguments or belligerent behaviors.
Don't blame yourself. This is not your fault. While we want to help our parents, make sure you are taking care of yourself. Continue to make time for friends and hobbies. It is good to give yourself a mental break from time to time. If not soon you may find yourself feeling very sad.
Tips
- Children do not always have a realistic perception of their parent's actual condition, so as a child or adolescent, don't jump to conclusions about your parent's mental health.
- Online sources can be really helpful in understanding your parent's illness and understanding what this means for you.
Warnings
- Do not blame yourself for your parent's condition.
- If you don't feel safe, always have a "safe house" nearby that you can go to.
- Depression is a very serious condition. If you are certain of the parent's condition, seek help from a trusted adult.
The Have I Got A Problem website is a free online resource to help people better understand any issues or concerns they may have about mental health or addiction. The website includes resources specifically focused to; general Mental Health, Depression, Stress, Anxiety, Insecurities, Self-harm Schizophrenia, Bipolar, Anger Management, Eating Disorders, Coping, general Addiction, Alcohol, Smoking, Gambling, Drugs, Cocaine, Heroin, Marijuana (Cannabis) Ecstasy, PCP, Mephedrone, Ketamine & Crystal Meth.
The site was created to give the public information to help them understand mental health and addiction issues and to assist people in making better informed decisions about their life and personal choices.
www.haveigotaproblem.com was created and is run by 'Advising Communities’, which is a UK registered charity (Charity No. 1061055)
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Quotes
"If you are depressed, You are living in the past. If you are anxious, You are living in the future. If you are at peace, You are living in the present."
Anonymous
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