Depression is a difficult mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Many people still see it as a personal weakness or something that can be easily overcome.

However, it is a serious condition that requires professional help and understanding from family and friends. When people struggling with depression hear certain comments, it can make their symptoms worse and push them away from seeking help. In this article, we will discuss the words that can hurt someone with depression and what you should avoid saying.

“Just Snap Out of It”

This is one of the most common and hurtful things people say to those with depression.

Depression is not a feeling that someone can just “shake off” or “snap out of.” It is a severe medical condition that requires treatment and support from loved ones. By saying this, you make the person feel guilty or ashamed of their condition.

“Stop Being So Negative”

Many people with depression struggle with negative thoughts and emotions. Telling them to “stop being negative” can make them feel invalidated and unheard. Instead, try to understand what they are going through and offer support.

Encourage them to express their feelings and remind them that you are there for them.

“You Have Nothing to be Depressed About”

This is another hurtful comment that invalidates someone’s feelings. Depression does not need a specific reason or trigger to occur. It can happen to anyone, regardless of their circumstances.

Telling someone that they have “nothing to be depressed about” can make them feel guilty about their condition and prevent them from seeking help.

“Why Don’t You Just Get Some Exercise?”

Exercise can be helpful in improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression. However, it is not a cure-all.

By suggesting that someone with depression simply “get some exercise,” you are oversimplifying their condition and suggesting that they’re not trying hard enough to overcome their struggles. Instead, offer to join them on a walk or exercise together for support.

“I Know How You Feel”

While it may seem like you’re offering comfort when you say “I know how you feel,” it can often make the person feel more isolated.

Depression affects everyone differently, and just because you may have experienced something similar, it doesn’t mean you know exactly what they’re going through. Instead of assuming, ask them to tell you more about their experience and offer sympathy and support.

“It Could Be Worse”

When someone is struggling with depression, comparing their situation to others’ is not helpful. This comment can make the person feel guilty for feeling the way they do and prevent them from seeking help.

It is important to remember that everyone’s struggles are valid, and minimizing someone’s struggles is not helpful.

“You Just Need to Relax”

While relaxation techniques such as meditation or mindfulness can be helpful in reducing stress and anxiety, they are not a cure for depression. Telling someone to “just relax” can make them feel like their condition is not taken seriously.

Instead, offer to try relaxation techniques with them or seek professional help together.

“Have You Tried Herbal Supplements?”

While some herbal supplements may be helpful in reducing symptoms of depression, it is not the first-line treatment recommended by medical professionals.

By suggesting that someone with depression try herbal supplements, you are oversimplifying their condition and potentially delaying them from getting proper treatment. Encourage them to seek professional help and offer support in finding the right treatment.

“You’re So Selfish”

Depression can often make people feel isolated and alone. Telling someone that they’re “selfish” for feeling the way they do can push them further away from seeking help.

It is important to remember that depression is not a choice and that the person is not intentionally making themselves feel the way they do.

“I Can’t Deal with This Anymore”

Supporting someone with depression can be challenging at times, but it is essential to remember that they need your support.

By saying “I can’t deal with this anymore,” you make the person feel like a burden and can discourage them from opening up to you. It is important to practice self-care and seek support for yourself as well, but never make the person with depression feel guilty for their struggles.

Depression is a serious condition that requires understanding and support from loved ones. If you or someone you know is struggling with depression, seek professional help immediately.

Avoid saying these comments and offer sympathy, support, and understanding.