Depression is not just feeling sad.
Depression is not being ungrateful.
We don’t help a depressed person by telling them not to worry about a troubling issue.
We don’t help a depressed person by pointing out all the things they ought to be grateful for.
Helpful Acronym
S – Sadness/depressed mood
I – Interest decreased in things typically enjoyed
G – Guilt/inappropriate guilt and feelings of worthlessness
I – Insomnia/Hypersomnia
E – Energy/decreased energy and increased fatigue
C – Concentration/difficulty concentrating
A – Appetite/decreased or increased appetite/unwanted weight gain or weight loss
P – Psychomotor agitation/retardation (observed)
S – Suicidal thoughts/thoughts about death
How People with Depression Have Described the Experience of Depression
“Having depression is like being in an abusive relationship with yourself.”
“It’s like a daily guilt trip.”
“Depression is like falling so deep down the rabbit hole that you forget what the sky looks like.”
“Depression is having everything you’ve ever wanted and your’e still not happy.”
What Can You Do?
Validate, Validate, Validate!
Validation does not equal Agreement
Validation is voiced empathy
Avoid “should” statements
Rather, acknowledge what is and ask why
Mentalize for Self and Others
Keeping their mind in mind and our own mind in mind.
Not just empathy:
Not just: “What would matter to me if I was in their shoes?”
But also: “What factors in my own life stage and mental state inhibit me from understanding?”
All Valenta programs are focused on providing the patient with opportunities for recovery and healing of body, mind, soul and relationships. We invite you to review the information on our website and please call our office so we can assist you or your loved one in recovery for life.
– Contact Us –
(909) 771-8023