It's not easy to live with a parent who suffers from depression. Depression is a serious mental illness that affects almost every area of a person's life, according to the National Institute of Mental Health. Physical symptoms such as sleep difficulties, appetite changes and irritability are common. You may have also noticed that your parent seems sad, unhappy or cries frequently.
Step 1
Learn about depressive symptoms. If you inform yourself about the ways that depression can affect someone, you won't be so surprised when you see the symptoms. Find reliable information from the National Institute of Mental Health or Help Guide.
Step 2
Have an honest discussion with your parent about your concerns. Tell him that you've noticed that he's been depressed lately and that you want to do something to help. Ask him if he has thought about getting treatment. Let him know that depression doesn't go away on its own. Encourage him to make an appointment with his doctor.
Step 3
Enlist the help of family members and friends. If your other parent isn't involved in the situation, ask a close relative or a trusted family friend for support. If you don't have a family member or friend you feel comfortable with, talk to a counselor.
Step 4
Help out with household chores. According to Help Guide, depressed people have a difficult time with even the most basic tasks. Simple things like doing the dishes or vacuuming can leave them tired and depleted of energy. Volunteer to help out around the house.
Step 5
Get support for yourself. It's important to realize that you're not responsible for your parent's depression and that you shouldn't have to carry this heavy burden on your own. Talk about your own feelings and experiences with a counselor or another trusted adult.
Step 6
See your friends. Don't stop doing the things you enjoy doing. Continue to go your usual activities. You don't have to put your life on hold because your parent is depressed. You can still help your parent and be supportive while continuing your own life.
