Worried about someone in your life?

Have we noticed that our partner in life, or parent or child has taken to lying in bed more, isolating themselves, not doing the things they used to love, dropping out of sports or activities, or not socialising even with their friends? Perhaps they are spending all their time on the phone these days, or seem generally negative all the time. How long have they been wearing that same T-shirt?

Disconnecting with our loved ones and life in general is one of the many symptoms of Depression.

I recall a woman asking, "How can I support my husband with depression without feeling like I’m walking on eggshells? I don’t know how to connect with him anymore." My response was simple: "He’s still the same person, but he now has an illness. Like any illness, it needs to be acknowledged, talked about, understood, and addressed with a focus on recovery."

It’s heartbreaking when I meet someone remarkable who feels worthless or unloved. What challenges led them here? What shaped their pain?

Many issues begin as stress, fear, or anxiety, and recognizing the signs early can prevent more severe problems later. However, while the earlier we catch it the better, the best time is to do something about it is always: Now.

Make a list of what has changed for the worst and look at it and think how much value would be added to life if those things got turned around.

In my years as a psychotherapist, I’ve been deeply moved by the courage it takes for people to sit with a stranger and share their most personal struggles. It’s a privilege to hear these unique, challenging life stories and to support individuals in creating meaningful change.

Mental health awareness is often discussed, and the stigma surrounding it is real. But stigma often starts at home, where it can be daunting to accept that a loved one may be struggling, and even harder for that loved one to admit the struggle.

Remember, being defeated is temporary giving up is what makes it permanent. Taking the first step may feel nearly impossible, but the second one is easier, and the third one easier still.

Life does not have to be this hard, and whether we believe it or not, it is possible to change how we feel, to improve life and reduce whatever is keeping us down.

I have seen so many clients surprised when life gets better, against their expectations. It is hard when we are stuck in that bad place, to see how things can improve. But they still do.

Let's have a chat about the problems!

Hope you have a good week,
Pat