Living at home with your family is one thing, but living with other people as an adult can be tough to deal with. Lifestyle and personality conflicts between roommates can make living together stressful at times, but when depression is a factor, things can be even more difficult. It is possible to live peacefully with a depressed roommate and even help her without having to sacrifice your peace or sanity in the process.
Step 1
Learn about depression. Help Guide recommends becoming educated about depression as the first step in helping someone you love who is dealing with these feelings. As a roommate, you are one of the closest people to your friend and your influence can make a huge difference. Read books on depression and become educated about the ways depression is treated and how you can help. Consult community forums and blogs on the Internet that can help you gain another perspective on depression as a mental illness.
Step 2
Know how to recognize the symptoms. For many people, depression is something that must be dealt with as it comes along. If your roommate is tired all the time, seems to have strange and unexplained headaches and body pains, is sleeping a lot or isn't interested in hanging out like she used to be, she may be going through a depressive bout.
Step 3
Suggest your roommate see a doctor if he has not already done so. Along with depression comes a high risk of suicide, and many people who struggle with depression do not wish to see a therapist. If he's the type of person to be offended by a recommendation to seek professional help, suggest he visit a general practitioner and get a check-up. Encourage him to tell his doctor about his depressed feelings and take the doctor's professional opinion as to the next logical step in dealing with them.
Step 4
Use supportive language. College Bound recommends speaking positively with respect to your roommate's depression. Let her know that you're there for her, and prove it by actually being there. Tell her things like, "I'm here to listen," and offer your help when she's visibly struggling. Even if she refuses, the knowledge that you are really there to support her can go a long way.
Step 5
Lead by example. A roommate is often a friend too, and friends have fun together. It may be difficult for your roommate to enjoy herself without a lot of encouragement, so the best thing you can do is be that encouragement. At the same time, avoid things that may negatively influence your roommate and even contribute to her depression. Stay away from drugs, alcohol and get plenty of exercise and fresh air. Doing these things for yourself will make her more likely to do them as well.
