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Depression in the Family
When a family member is depressed, his or her illness affects every other member. Seeing a loved one in pain is always difficult and being with someone who is depressed is stressful because of his or her lack of motivation and inability to communicate or care for him/herself.
Family members and caregivers have to make adjustments in their daily lives. It's important for family members and caregivers to remember that a person with depression may need help with daily chores just as a person with a broken arm would. It is often helpful to divide household chores or financial responsibilities differently. Families and caregivers must remember that depression drains the loved one of his or her usual energy or mood.
Caregivers and family members have an impact on how people with clinical depression feel and recover. Sometimes families or caregivers have a negative effect on how their loved one feels or how recovery progresses. For example, Jim's wife initially didn't understand what was wrong with him. She became frustrated with him for not snapping out of it. Family members and caregivers who do not understand the illness may make the depressed person feel more guilty or worthless.
When family members and caregivers understand their loved one's illness, they can be a great asset. Family members and caregivers may help identify the symptoms of depression and help the patient recognize when they are improving or getting worse. Support from loved ones can be a positive influence throughout treatment and recovery.
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