Depression can be exhausting, but Lifeline is just a call away

DEPRESSION is overwhelming to the sufferer and manifests in many ways – from dark despair to crazy highs.

Living with a depressed loved one needs mindfulness of the toll it takes on you. You are wanting to help, you are wanting things to change, and you are probably swinging between feelings of great empathy, frustration and anger, and then beating up on yourself.

Depression is like a deep dark hole of inertia and hopelessness. For the bystander, it’s so difficult to understand, particularly when the lifelines that you throw have seemed so futile.

Try not to say things like “pull yourself together” or “you’ve got so much to be grateful for” or “there are so many people worse off than you”.

Instead, let your loved one know that they are loved, but be careful not to fall into the deep dark hole yourself. It’s important for you to have “me time” – try to find ways in which to relax and do the things you enjoy (without feeling guilty).

While you feel you should be supportive, sometimes you just can’t be and that’s okay. You need support too and reaching out for it doesn’t mean you’re being disloyal. Don’t isolate yourself.

LifeLine Western Cape is always just a phone call away. The call lines are open between 9.30am and 10pm every day – simply dial 021 461 1111. If you would prefer to speak face-to-face to a counsellor, please contact 021 461 1113 during office hours and make an appointment. You can also chat with LifeLine Western Cape on WhatsApp at 063 709 2620. All of their services are free of charge.

GLYNIS DEPPER | Counsellor at LifeLine Western Cape