5 Tips on Caring for a Loved One with Depression

5 Tips on Caring for a Loved One with Depression - MalaysiaCaregiving Support

5 Tips on Caring for a Loved One with Depression

Almost half a million Malaysians experience depressive symptomology. Find out how we as caregivers can identify depression and support our loved ones.

Mental conditions are expected to be the second-highest health issue to affect Malaysians after heart disease.

Depression is a medical condition that negatively affects the way we feel, think and act. The cause of depression can be due to a multitude of factors but it is preventable and is definitely not a normal part of ageing. Without proper treatment, depression can severely affect our day-to-day functioning and lead to a range ofemotional and physical problems.

Besides medical intervention, there are other measures we as caregivers can take to help our loved ones prevent and cope with depression:

Lead an active lifestyle

Endorphins are our bodies’ “happiness maker”. They are chemicals produced by the body to relieve stress or pain, and boost happiness. Exercising releases these endorphins in our body, making us feel positive. With regular exercise, it can even help fight depression and lift moods.

Social activities, such as community yoga and tai chi, can be doubly beneficial. Besides being a mood booster, group exercises can prevent social isolation – arisk factorthat increases the likelihood of developing depressive symptoms among older adults.

As family caregivers, we can join in these activities which are commonly found in our neighbourhoodcare and support grouptogether with our loved ones. While we keep depression at bay, we are also giving our bodies a good workout.

Build a support system

Loneliness is a common risk factor for depression and other health conditions.

Caregivers must understand that mere physical presence does not equate to companionship or support for their loved ones. Even for those living together with their loved ones, dedicating time to interact and engage our loved ones is necessary for relationship building.

One way we can support our loved ones with depression is to have a support system where family and friends are there for them on a regular basis. When interacting with them, it is also important to practice compassionate listening by encouraging them to open up and speak about their concerns, making it clear that you are there to actively listen without judgement and will always love, support, and be there for them.

Entrust them with a responsibility

Whether it is managing the care of a pet or simply watering the plants, entrusting our loved ones with a meaningful responsibility can help them rediscover their sense of purpose in life, which has proven to have a positive impact onmental health and well-being.

This can also take the form of picking up a new hobby they are interested in. Through setting and achieving these milestones in their learning journey, our loved ones can feel a sense of accomplishment, whichhelps in coping with depression. Social pastimes, such as chess or line dancing, can even have the added benefit of reducing loneliness and social isolation.

Encourage them to seek treatment

The social stigma against mental conditions may prevent individuals from recognising and seeking treatment for depression. This mindset is more prevalent in the older generation who grew up in an age where people with mental conditions are shunned due to a lack of general understanding of mental conditions, with many believing that people with mental conditions aredangerousor cursed. While it may be difficult to shift their mindset and convince them to recognise the need for treatment, this is anessential steptowards their recovery.

Start by gently presenting the idea to them. Have an open discussion and help them connect the dots about their symptoms and recognise that they may have depression. Once they have come to terms with the diagnosis, make an appointment with a therapist or psychiatrist so they can seek professional medical advice and get the care they need in a timely manner.

Consider home care

Depression can make getting out of bed feel like a chore and stepping out of the house an uphill task. Unwilling to leave their homes, these seniors may be unable to seek help and neglect their personal care.

Professional caregivers who are trained and understand their condition thus become a reliable source of help. Through home care, these seniors can receive the help and support they need in their activities of daily living. Furthermore, by visiting these homes, caregivers and nurses can identify issues and triggers that may contribute to the depression and advise suitable treatment accordingly.

Self-care always comes first

Caring for a loved one with depression is never an easy task. Having a good understanding of depression andinteracting with other caregiverswho are caring for someone with depression are useful ways to help caregivers better navigate their caregiving journey.

If you feel overwhelmed, try taking a step back and have some respite from caregiving. Take some time to recharge by reconnecting with friends or engaging in relaxing activities such as going for a run. One simple relaxation exercise you can do anytime is to sit in a quiet space and take deep, slow breaths for a few minutes.

Most importantly, do not feel guilty when you take time off to do something for yourself. Always remember that to have the capacity to care for someone else, you need to take care of yourself first.

If you are looking for support in caring for a loved one with depression, we can help.Feel free to chat with our penasihat at016-2992188.

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