For a long time mentioning the word ‘health’ always referred to physical well-being. Mental health was a taboo subject at best, discussed in hushed tones or a non-issue at worst. Especially in African culture. People suffering from mental illness like depression were expected to deal with it without bothering anyone, or ‘get over it’ after a session of advice. But with the advent of campaigns raising awareness on these issues, attitudes are changing. Here are some ways to navigate depression.
Don’t Dismiss
Depression has largely been misunderstood as just sadness. But it is a condition that makes the patient lose interest in life, from simple things like getting out of bed to stuff that they are passionate about. Therefore telling someone to ‘stop being lazy’ or ‘it’s just a mood, it will pass’ doesn’t help. Acknowledge that there is an underlying problem beneath the person’s behaviour. If you suspect you might be going through depression don’t dismiss yourself either. In both cases it is advisable to seek professional help.
See A Mental Health Expert
A lot of stigma is still attached to seeking help for mental illness, but your health is more important than what people say. Do your research before settling on a practitioner. Make sure they have the necessary qualifications. Also gauge whether you’re getting along with them because this is a person you’ll open up deeply to. Psychiatrists and therapists are some of the professionals to seek out.
Be Patient
With yourself if you’re the patient, or a loved one. Mental health issues in most cases aren’t solved in an instant or from one session. Sometimes the patient has been suffering in silence for years and the hurdles have to be worked through gradually. Therefore don’t get frustrated when they go into a relapse or take long to recover. That frustration makes things worse since the patient is unhappy about their condition and wants to heal. They aren’t deliberately wallowing and seeking pity.
Avoid Comparison
Don’t be that person who piles on pressure on the patient, implying that they are being sissies. That they should shake it off and handle it- after all, others with bigger problems are doing just fine, right? Each person’s struggle is unique to them. Everyone handles challenges differently. Ditch the comparison for support. Let the patient know you are there for them and desire the best for their lives. A mental illness patient needs all the assistance they can get, especially from family members.
