Thread by @ObafemiFawibe

Depressed people don't need religious sermons. They are alternating between reality and fantasy. They need something concrete. Something to hold on to. Not hope in the ways we peddle it

#MentalHealthAwareness

They don't need "It is well" "Just believe" "God will do it" etc.

They don't need "Be grateful, your mates are dead/sick/in prison..."

Trust me, they are not concerned about others at that point. They just want to find meaning and peace with themselves
#MentalHealthAwareness

Sometimes, all they need is a listening ear. Just listen, nod, hmmn, Aha, exactly.
Then at certain intervals, ask them open questions. Eg "why do you think...." "Will that...." "Is that so..."
"So what do want to do..."

#MentalHealthAwareness

Open ended questions will help them talk more. Once the emotional valve is released, the hurt and low self worth is deflated.
You'd be surprised, they tell you "I know everything will be fine..." Or ask you for a fun activity.

#MentalHealthAwareness

It's like releasing the knot of a balloon. Once the trapped air is released it takes some effort and time to fill it up again.

#MentalHealthAwareness

How well a person heals or survives depression, depends on what happens when the balloon is deflated.
#MentalHealthAwareness

@threadreaderapp please unroll.