HELPING SOMEONE WITH A MOOD DISORDER
Tips on what to say—and what not to say—from the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance
BY:BETH POLAZZO
You are not alone in this. I'm here
for you.
I understand you have a real illness, and that's the cause of
these thoughts and feelings.
I may not be able to understand exactly how you feel, but I care
about you and want to help.
When you want to give up, tell yourself you will hold on for just
one more day, hour, minute-whatever you can manage.
You are important to me. Your life is important to me.
Tell me what I can do now to help you.
I am here for you.
We will get through this together.
What you should avoid saying:
It's all in your head.
We all go through times like this.
You'll be fine.
Stop worrying.
Look on the bright side.
You have so much to live for, why do you want to die?
Just snap out of it.
Stop acting crazy.
What's wrong with you?
Shouldn't you be better by now?
For more information about dealing with depression and bipolar disorder, click here.