Mental H2O Inc.

An official 501 (c)(3) Non-profit Organization



How to support



Depression.



Depression is a mood disorder that affects your thoughts, your behavior, and can affect other crucial aspects of your life. According to multiple sources like DBSA alliance, around 1.9 million kids between the ages of 3-17 as of 2018. Many things are occurring in the brain during depression, such as the excessive release of cortisol to the human brain during situations of stress.


According to the DSM-5 (The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th Edition) symptoms of Depression may include changes in appetite, social withdrawal, less interest in activities, irritability, and more. Depression isn't easy to handle, it is important we remain a patient, empathetic, and caring approach when talking and caring for an individual struggling with depression.



Signs of depression



It is important to note that if you or a loved one might be struggling with Depression, please contact a trusted adult or tell your doctor, school counselor, or teacher. There are many people you can rely on who want to help you.

You can always contact the National Suicide Prevention Line for self-help, the button to call will be on the pop--up message.
1-800-273-8255





Some of the signs of Depression in teens include:


Overall Sadness or Hopelessness, Loss of Interest in Pleasurable Activities, Lack of Energy, Social Withdrawal, Anger outbursts, Difficulty Concentrating, and Apathy.



We understand how difficult it can be to know how to respond when someone confides in you about their mental health.



IT IS IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER THAT DEPRESSION IS MORE THAN SADNESS. IF A FRIEND, PEER, OR FAMILY MEMBER IS STRUGGLING WITH DEPRESSION, IT IS IMPORTANT TO REMEMBER THAT TELLING THEM "EVERYTHING WILL BE OKAY" OR DEVALUING THEIR FEELINGS IS ONE OF THE WORST THINGS YOU CAN DO. WE MUST SUPPORT EACH OTHER, SPREAD LOVE, NO MATTER HOW DIFFICULT IT GETS.


5 Steps: How to respond when a friend opens up to you





1.

Listen When someone opens up to you about their feelings, pay close attention. Allow them to speak without interrupting, judging, or making assumptions. This can make your friend feel more at ease. You can demonstrate that you are paying attention by nodding or repeating what they say. If they are overwhelmed, advise they write it down in a text or on a piece of paper. That way, they may take their time thinking about what they want to say without worrying about how it will come out in conversation or getting upset in front of you.





2.

Reassure When someone has opened up about their feelings, they may instantly worry that they have said the wrong thing or spoken too much. The first thing you may say to them is that they have done the right thing by talking about it. 'I'm really glad you told me this,' you may add, or 'it might have been tough, but it's great that you talked to me about it.'



Continued





3. Validate Their Feelings


Whatever they are dealing with, their experiences are valid, and it might be suitable to remind your buddy of this. You may say something like, "It's okay to feel that way," or "What you're going through seems really difficult." It may be incredibly lonely when you are battling with your mental health. You are letting them know that their feelings are valid by letting them know they are not alone.





4. Show with actions


Sometimes all it takes to show your friend that you care is a hug, a cup of coffee, or simply spending the time to sit with them. It doesn't have to be a grand gesture; simply being present shows that you care. Someone who has revealed their feelings with you may be concerned that you will not want to spend time with them. Simple gestures might remind them that you are still their friend and that you can accomplish things together.


5. Remind Yourself


It's reasonable to want to mend or solve anything after your friend has shared something with you. But keep in mind that it is not solely your obligation to help them. You have done so much by being someone your friend can confide in.



If you are concerned about a friend, urge them to speak with a trusted adult, such as a teacher, school nurse, or school counselor. Your friend may be hesitant to inform an adult and apprehensive about their reaction. If you are able, you may offer to accompany them to speak with a trustworthy adult.



Keeping it a secret



Your friend may reveal very personal and worrisome information to you. For example, they may inform you that they are being harmed or abused, or that they are concerned about their own safety. They may attempt to persuade you not to tell anyone what they have told you. But keep in mind that their safety is the most crucial consideration.


If you are concerned that your friend is in danger, speak with a trustworthy adult such as a teacher, family member, or doctor. People must be aware in order to provide your friend with the assistance and support they require.



Check in with your friend



After you've talked with your pal, follow up with them a day or two later to see how they're doing. 'How are you feeling since our conversation the other day?' This might serve as a reminder to them that they are not alone and that you are there to assist them. It's okay if your friend doesn't want to talk about it; it's vital to respect their limits and allow them the time they need to care for their mental health.



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Based in Hillsborough County FL, USA


Want to reach us? Email: mentalh2oinc@gmail.com

Mental h2o Notice



If you or a loved one needs support right now, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
988.




National
Suicide Hotline

If you or a loved one belive you may be struggling or are in need of support, Tell a trusted adult first,