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
What you can say that helps:- 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.