Look Ok... Feel Crap?

Will I make it worse?

Despite the common myth, asking someone about depression won’t make them get it, and asking someone about suicide won’t put the idea into their mind. Quite the opposite. Talking to people about how they are feeling, if done sensitively and appropriately, can be a real help. It can show the person that you recognise that they are struggling and that you care enough about them to want to do something.

Below is a list of statements that are helpful and some that are not helpful.

Send us any others that you have heard – for either category, and we’ll add them in as well.

What to say

  • I still value you as a friend, you are a good person.
  • You are important to me.
  • I am on your side.
  • Take it one step at a time or one day at a time.
  • Is there anything you can think of that is making this worse for you?your o
  • I think everyone should talk about their feelings, it helps everyone understand each other, their problems and themselves
  • Do you feel like ending it? Can I get someone to help you? I will stay and wait with you if you like?

Add your own

 

 

What not to say

  • Pull your socks up.
  • Stop whingeing, get off your arse and do something!
  • Cheer up pal, it may never happen!
  • Everyone gets depressed.
  • Take a happy pill.
  • Other people have it much worse than you and they don’t get depressed
  • Stop feeling sorry for yourself
  • Get a job, it'll give you purpose
  • You've got a face like a smacked arse!

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Copyright: DAS, 2010; Last updated: 13/01/10