Former Indian cricketer Robin Uthappa recently opened up about his struggles with suicidal thoughts in an interview. He shared a distressing moment when he contemplated jumping from a hotel balcony during a tour in South Africa, highlighting his battle with depression. Uthappa noted that the stigma surrounding therapy often left him unaware of his mental health issues for years.
His revelations shed light on the fact that mental health challenges can affect anyone, regardless of their success. As many of us have witnessed individuals struggling with depression, it is essential to actively support those facing such challenges and support them.
How To Support People With Depression?
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), more than 700,000 people lose their lives by suicide each year, making it a significant public health issue. Suicide is the third leading cause of death among individuals aged 15 to 29 all around the world, with approximately 73% of these suicides occurring in low- and middle-income countries. Supporting someone with depression requires understanding, patience, and proactive engagement. Below are a few ways to provide effective support to those dealing with depression.
- Encourage Professional Help: Urge them to seek assistance from a mental health professional, such as a therapist or psychiatrist.
- Listen and Validate: Be there to listen without judgment and let them express their feelings and validate their experiences, showing that you care.
- Offer Practical Help: Assist with daily tasks that may feel overwhelming, such as chores, grocery shopping, or running errands as this can alleviate some of their stress.
- Promote Social Interaction: Invite them to participate in activities, even simple outings like walks.
- Stay Informed: Educate yourself about depression to better understand what they are going through and how best to support them.
- Be Patient: Recovery takes time, and there may be ups and downs. Offer consistent support and remind them that healing is a process.
- Check-In Regularly: Regularly reach out to see how they are doing, reinforcing that you are there for them.
- Encourage Healthy Habits: Suggest engaging in activities that promote mental well-being, such as exercise, mindfulness practices, or journaling.
What Are Some Suicide Prevention Tips?
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Recognising the signs of suicide is the crucial first step in prevention for people going through depression. Unnati Machchhar, Associate Programme Director for the Prevention of Violence against Women and Children at SNEHA, emphasises how thoughtful responses can make a difference and offers several key insights for suicide prevention. By understanding these strategies, you can play a vital role in supporting those at risk and fostering a more compassionate environment for mental health discussions.
- If you notice signs of mental distress in someone, reach out gently and promptly. Show genuine concern and create a safe space for them to share their feelings.
- Encourage individuals in distress to seek help from a mental health professional, such as a counsellor or psychologist. Gently persuade them to take this important step.
- Check-in with them regularly. Consistent communication can help reduce feelings of loneliness and foster connection.
- If you suspect someone may harm themselves, remove any potential means of self-harm, such as firearms or sharp objects, and do not leave them alone.
- Increase awareness about suicide and effective responses by sharing information through workshops and encouraging others to prioritise their mental health.
Takeaway
Supporting individuals with depression is crucial in addressing a significant public health issue, as highlighted by the World Health Organisation's alarming statistics on suicide. By encouraging professional help, actively listening, and maintaining regular communication, we can create a supportive environment that fosters healing. Each of us plays a role in offering compassion and understanding, contributing to a culture where mental health is prioritised and individuals feel empowered to seek help.