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Submitted by PatientsEngage on 5 February 2015

According to the World Health Organization, there are more than 350 million people all over the world with depression. With that staggering statistic, it is highly probable that we will all interact at some point with someone experiencing a bout with depression.

One of the most devastating aspects of dealing with depression is the stigma and negative criticism that comes from others. Furthermore, people may not even know that their behaviors and comments are being negative or hurtful and sometimes even make the depression feel worse.

With this in mind, here are 20 simple things we can remember when interacting with those that may be having a fight with depression. Any one of these points will not only help with the stigma surrounding depression, but may even help the individual dealing with depression.

1. They are strong in character

2. They love it when you reach out to them unexpectedly

3. They do not want to burden anyone

4. They are not “broken” or “defective”

5. They are natural philosophers

6. They are fighting hard against depression and appreciate lots of support

7. They like opportunities for fun and laughter

8. They are sensitive to other people’s feelings and actions

9. They should be treated respectfully

10. They should be treated like anyone else

11. They have talents and interests

12. They are fully capable of giving and receiving love

13. They love learning about how life works

14. They do not plan on losing the fight against depression

15. They may feel sad for no apparent reason, so just be with them

16. They may not have as much energy as they would like to have

17. They may seem irritable at times – do not take it personally

18. They do not want to hear “shoulds”

19. They need lots of family support and encouragement

20. They need positive reinforcement more than criticism or negative reinforcement

http://www.lifehack.org/articles/communication/20-things-remember-your-loved-ones-suffer-from-depression.html?ref=fbp&n=2

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