Looking after yourself

Your mental health is important too.

Helping a loved one with depression can also affect your emotional health.

  1. Are you worrying a lot about them?
  2. Do you want to go out and do something fun but feel you can’t if they are not up to it?
  3. Do you feel guilty if you take time out for yourself?

These feelings are common and natural, but looking after yourself is essential; otherwise you may become overwhelmed, stressed or depressed too. By looking after yourself, you will be more able to help them.

  1. Make sure you make time to do the things you enjoy, such as hobbies and seeing other friends. Have fun and don't feel bad.
  2. Take time out to exercise, a great stress reliever! Eat well. Even if they don't want to eat much, cook yourelf a tasty healthy meal. It will help you feel good. Get tips for good mood food on our food page.
  3. Get support. This can be informally through other good friends or family members or from carers' organisations. Many local carers' organisations run support groups for people looking after people with Depression and other mental illnesses. Contact us at ask@lookokfeelcrap.org for information about groups in your local area.
  4. Can you get any extra help? You are entitled to ask your local Social Work Department for an assessment of your own needs in terms of benefits and support. They can also help you if either of you need a break. Visit the Getting Help and Recovery sections of this website for more ideas on how to help yourself and look after your emotional health.

 

Remember what they say on airplanes: put your own mask on first before helping someone else!  Take care of your own needs and you'll be better equipped to be there for your friend or relative.