Taking Up the Talk

The commercials say: "Depression hurts, Cymbalta can help." Well, unfortunately, we're not all pharmacists or psychiatrists, but when it comes to an issue I have dealt with many times in my life--depression--there is something we can do: talk about it.

I was reminded of how depression can affect people this past week when I learned that a friend was dealing with it. My experiences as someone who talks with people who have depression run the gamut. I understand that it can make life extraordinarily complicated, confusing and frustrating. Often, I believe that depression can just be a passing phase; yet I am aware that for many people it isn't and requires more than just a prescription.

This is why we need to talk. Or perhaps we had better listen first. Regardless, I tend to believe that it is our responsibility as friends, family, colleagues, etc. to broach this topic with the person and allow them to unload some of their stress onto us. Perhaps the person just needs to know that what they are feeling is not unusual, or maybe they just need to know that someone else is aware of their problems. It's definitely situational, and requires us as listeners to be flexible, but if we can lighten someone's load, I believe that we can be extremely effective in lessening the wear and tear of depression.

I'm not calling this medical advice, or asking for anyone to think of me as an expert. For me, though, this is one of those issues people my age and beyond have serious issues dealing with and I believe that more people should be proactive in trying to alleviate the negative effects of depression. It's amazing what a conversation can do for someone's spirits, and for your knowledge of their situation. Maybe you can redirect them to someone else who has had a similar problem or offer advice of your own. Regardless, I want to hope that just talking with someone with depression will remind them that they are not alone and that you are eager and willing to help them.