“That’s the thing about depression: A human being can survive almost anything, as long as she sees the end in sight. But depression is so insidious, and it compounds daily, that it’s impossible to ever see the end. The fog is like a cage without a key.” – Elizabeth Wurtzel

Depression can be very difficult to deal with on your own, and professionals recommend seeking out friends and support systems to help with handling the daily feelings that depression brings. It’s very likely that someone you currently know is dealing with depression and at some point they may contact you for emotional support and help.

Psychologist Selena C. Snow, PhD, says, “A depressed person has an opportunity to learn that they are not the only one suffering in silence as they gain support and empathy from others who understand the depths of their pain. And they benefit from the encouragement of peers to take small steps forward.”

If you’ve never experienced depression, you may not know the best ways to handle a friend or family member who is suffering from it, so learning a few small tips on how to help them feel accepted and stable can be very beneficial. If you find yourself being a support for a loved one who is depressed, here are eight ways to help them feel like themselves again, and to let them know you value their feelings and love them.

HERE ARE 8 TIPS THAT HELP A PERSON WITH DEPRESSION FEEL ACCEPTED AND HAPPY AGAIN

1. DON’T PRETEND IT DOESN’T EXIST

Depression is a serious condition, so pretending that it isn’t there won’t make it go away. It can be natural to think that staying the same and acting like everything is normal can be helpful to a depressed loved one, but it can actually make them feel that their feelings are not valid. Make sure to acknowledge what they are going through, and show that you understand how hard it can be for them. When someone knows you recognize their condition, and still accept them, this is a great sign of love and brings a bit of relief.

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2. DON’T TRY TO FIX THEM

If it were this easy, then one visit to a professional psychologist would be all it takes to cure anyone who is depressed. In reality, depression has many causes and symptoms; it’s more complicated. Rather than trying to fix your family member or friend, it helps to realize that they aren’t broken. Rather, they’re dealing with a common, and sometimes serious condition that mainly only professionals know how to help cope with and cure.

According to WebMD, “To get better, your person needs professional help from a doctor or therapist. Depression is a medical illness. You wouldn’t try to cure a friend’s diabetes on your own. You shouldn’t try curing depression, either.”

As good as your intentions are to ‘fix’ them, they aren’t broken, and a professional psychologist is going to be their best option – so don’t try to fix them. They need support and love, not a quick fix.

3. EASY ON THE POSITIVITY

Being a source of support and positivity for your depressed loved one that they can depend on when they reach out to you is very important. However, don’t firehose them with so much positivity thinking that it will somehow change them. If done too much, it might make them feel worse since they are currently unable to feel better on their own. For someone suffering, having ideas or other feelings pushed or forced on them can be uncomfortable as well. Stay positive with your loved one, but maintain balance and respect their feelings and their space to feel their feelings as well.

4. LET THEM TALK IT OUT

Allow your friend or family member to talk about how they feel, even if the feelings seem negative or its being ‘unproductive’. Being heard helps the depressed person to not feel isolated and is healing.

“Don’t avoid the person because you can’t think of something clever to say – someone who can listen is valuable. Sometimes just being there with them is valuable, so don’t put pressure on them to have something to say either. Make it clear that you want them to feel free to talk about anything that’s on their mind – but only when they feel able to,” psychiatrist Michael Simpson advises.

Being able to talk through their difficult feelings can be very therapeutic and helpful, so resist the need to give advice, but rather reflect back to them the content and feelings that you hear them saying in a non-judgmental way. Let them know you’re always there for them to talk to.

5. VALIDATE THEIR FEELINGS

Everyone deserves to feel heard and to have their feeling validated. Even if your loved one’s feelings don’t make clear sense, it helps to reflect back their feelings to them and to show that you understand. If for example your depressed friend says, “I just don’t feel good about anything recently,” you can say, “I can hear how nothing feeling exciting or motivating recently.” Acknowledging their feelings and situation helps them to lose their own self-judgment for feeling depressed. Emotions are neutral – it’s how we deal with them and what we do in reaction that can be maladaptive. Helping to validate their feelings can make it easier for them to deal with them.

6. BE SUPPORTIVE

A depressed loved one might find it difficult to reach out to someone for help when they need it. So it’s very important that you are there to offer your love and support when they need it. Let them know that you care about them and you want them to know that you are there for them when they need it, and that you want them to please ask anytime.

Psychiatrist and author Dr. Gail Saltz explains, “Most people’s reaction—it isn’t conscious—is to pull away, get away… Know that you can talk to them without feeling what they feel. You can do a great service by reaching out. You don’t have to imagine what it feels like.”

Being supportive can be a light when someone is in a dark place. Offer your love and support without forcing it, and your loved one will surely appreciate it.

7. INVITE THEM PLACES

Being depressed can sometimes mean that all someone wants to do is stay in bed all day and rest. Invite and encourage your friend or family member to go outside and to participate in activities with you rather than staying inside for days at a time. Encouraging them without forcing can make it easier for them to accept the opportunity sometimes and helps them to get outside and create some potentially positive feelings. Even just being invited helps them to feel that everything isn’t hopeless, as someone is still trying to help them feel better.

8. SET BOUNDARIES

As much as we want to help and save our loved ones, we need to make sure to take care of ourselves as well. Set your own boundaries so that you don’t end up becoming depressed yourself. If you feel drained, exhausted, or overwhelmed, then this is a sign that you need to set a boundary and take some self-love time to recharge. If you get depressed by helping your loved one, this can actually harm them more, as they could think they are bringing you down. Keep healthy boundaries and keep yourself feeling good so that you can still be a source of their strength when they need it.

“Taking care of someone with depression can be a lot to take on. It’s important that you set aside time for yourself. Do things you enjoy. Get out of the house every now and then. Take walks, or go to the gym. Hang out with friends. You may feel guilty for thinking about yourself. But if you don’t, you’ll burn out — and that won’t help either of you,” adds WebMD.

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Final thoughts

Depression is a serious condition that affects many, and has various causes and methods to help deal with it. You may have never been depressed, but it’s more than likely someone close to you has. Take the chance to reach out and show love to a loved one who is experiencing depression; know that you won’t fix them necessarily, but you’ll be able to support and love them while they are in their condition, and this is of great help.

The zodiac sign you were born under can say a lot about your personality, demeanor, and your overall thoughts about life.  If you’d like to know more about the mindset of your zodiac sign, find your sign below:

What is your zodiac mind set?

Aries

Aries have this ‘Me against the world’ way of thinking; they are go-getters and will stop at nothing when it comes to achieving their goals. Their self-esteem is high regardless of what others think about them. They might come off as arrogant or bossy, but in reality they have big hearts and care for others. They love and protect those who are close to them at all costs.

Taurus

Taurus may seem headstrong and stubborn but really they just want to do things their way. They don’t recognize the need to ask the advice of others if they already know how to do something. Their work ethic is strong and they like indulging in the luxuries of life, especially if they worked really hard to achieve something. Trust and loyalty is of utmost importance to them. Consider yourself special if they open up to you.

Gemini

Geminis have two sides to their personality, which can make them hard to understand. There are times when they like going out, meeting new people and socializing. Their charisma and warm aura draws people to them. But other times, their fiercely independent side draws them within and they prefer to be alone and do their own thing. They love having fun and don’t take life too seriously.

Cancer

Sometimes Cancers are even more difficult to understand than Geminis. They have a fun-loving soul underneath their tough exterior but can quickly become very serious. One minute, they seem to have already opened up to you, but the next minute they can shut you out completely. They can seem sensitive and needy, but in reality they just want to love and be loved. Cancers have a strong intuition and choose to only associate with genuine people.

Leo

Leos just love the spotlight and being the center of attention. They can come off as headstrong and arrogant to those who don’t know them, but once you get to know who they really are, you’ll see that they are truly lovable people. Even the most serious and calloused of people can find themselves laughing and having a good time when interacting with Leos. They are the life of the party, armed with a strong sense of self, and they aren’t afraid to show their true colors.

Virgo

Logical and rational thinking is what these guys do best. If you need a solution to anything, call a Virgo and they know just what to do. They have developed a practical mind set and never let their emotions cloud their decision-making. People think they are too uptight but the truth is they just have their own methods. Beneath their analytical minds lies a heart which desires to transcend the facts and just love and be loved in return. They indulge only in intelligent conversations, and won’t waste their time on matters they deem unimportant.

Libra

To Libras, achieving balance is key. They steer clear from petty drama and instead focus on creating happiness and fulfillment. Leaving a legacy in the world is what they live for. Once something shakes the perfect balance of a Libra’s life, everything gets put on pause until equilibrium is achieved once again. Their calm and composed nature is what draws other people to them.

See Also: Were You Born Between Signs – On Cusp? This Is What It Means For You

Scorpio

Scorpios have a mysterious aura about them. Even after spending time with them, they still seem difficult to decipher. Scorpios have the ability to attract anyone who catches their eye, as they are fully in touch with their sexuality. But if someone gets on their bad side, they can turn from sweet and innocent to vengeful and powerful in the blink of an eye. They need reassurance every now and then to feel loved, and appreciate the small things.

Sagittarius

Sagittarii do not like sitting still in life for long. They get bored easily and seek adventure, thrills and life’s interesting wonders. They enjoy talking a lot and leading the conversation they are involved in, but they don’t see that as being overwhelming to others. People under this sign just aim to live to the fullest. Their impulsive nature can lead them to making some bad decisions, but their zest for life causes them to be resilient and to always bounce back.

Capricorn

With such a strong work ethic, they often forget a lot of daily necessities because of working too much. They believe in the power of hard work, so they put their blood, sweat and tears into their careers. You may need to exert extra effort in getting them away from their desks, but if you manage to do so, they will shower you with affection.

Pisces

Pisces’ imagination is off the charts! You will never be bored when you are with them because of their bright and colorful ideas. They have a really caring nature and will protect their loved ones no matter what. Their creative abilities can be greatly used to help people in need when they follow their hearts.

Aquarius

They may seem emotionally unavailable at first, but they just take more time to open up than the average person. They have an extreme longing to immerse themselves in other cultures and to meet new people. They enjoy intellectual conversations but also want some alone time. Aquarians are some of the most interesting people you will ever meet, if you stick around long enough to see their true colors.

Was your sign accurate?

Let us know in the comments.

You are loved.

See Also: Check Out Which Greek God Or Goddess You Are According To Your Zodiac Sign

It can be difficult not to get upset when someone is rude to you. Your initial reaction is often to retaliate. However, if you find the strength in you to resist getting angry or losing control, you will be able to respond to impolite comments without having to stoop down to their level. Check out these 5 simple phrases that can instantly disarm rude people below:

”Thank you”

Saying “thank you” might come off as a simple gesture, but you’d be surprised by how quickly it can change the course of the conversation. We often use this phrase to show gratitude and when you say it to someone being inappropriate, it can show them that you’re not angry. Rude people find it amusing when others get angry and return their impoliteness to them, as this reinforces their negative behavior. If you hold your tongue and remain civil, it means that you recognize the person’s rudeness, but have chosen not to let their bad behavior affect you.

“You’re right”

Most people find it hard to accept someone else’s opinions. If there happens to be even just a little truth in what the person is saying, then use this phrase to stop the person in their tracks. Ultimately the conversation shall be cut short and there will be less chance for it to develop into a heated argument.

“You’re hurting my feelings”

If you really want to get through to the person, you might need to explain to them that they are hurting your feelings. Sometimes this is the only way to let them know that their words are indeed rude and causing others harm. In some cases, those people are just too insensitive and are not aware of how their words are affecting others. They may think that their words are humorous, and this kind of behavior may have been acceptable to some of their more unrefined friends. So if you speak up, they may be able to correct their inappropriate behavior and apologize.

“I think we should stop this conversation now”

Unfortunately, rude individuals don’t always care who they are offending. If you make it clear to them that you’ve been hurt or offended, and it still doesn’t stop them, this phrase will. This signals to them that you no longer enjoy the conversation and that you won’t put up with their ill-mannered behavior. Hopefully, the person will think twice before saying something rude the next time around.

“You always have something negative to say, don’t you?”

Psychologists have often recommended that one of the main ways to stop someone who is criticizing another, is to label their behavior as negative and not okay. Another useful phrase would be, “Stop being rude to me/Stop criticizing me.” These phrases point out the negative behavior of the other, and instantly disarms them. These phrases can also help the other person re-evaluate their attitude and really think about their words. By putting the spotlight on their actions, you are highlighting their negative behavior and this may help them be careful with their words in the future.

While our goal is to get along with others through the use of kindness and compassion, tolerating emotional abuse and harmful negativity neither helps us nor the other person. Setting boundaries of love and disarming rude behavior is actually an act of love when it promotes maintaining the love within yourself, and it sets a good example for the other person to become more loving.

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All twelve zodiac signs have both positive and negative traits. These traits are inseparable, just as how for each coin there are two sides. It’s important to be aware of the positive side, as well as the opposing negative side as well, for without the one, there is no other. It is good to know both aspects of the zodiac personalities, and knowing our weaknesses can help us grow and eventually change them into our strengths.

Aries (March 21st – April 19th)

Face One: Aries are known to be risk-takers and they are highly motivated by their goals. Their plans are all laid out and seldom do they wander off from it. They light up the room with their presence. Their aura is irresistible.

Face Two: They are extremely moody and they get frustrated even by the most trivial things. They can’t stand when things don’t go as planned.

Taurus (April 20th – May 20th)

Face One: They are perseverant, faithful and upright. They make it a habit to make the people around them feel comfortable.

Face Two: They persevere even when their intentions aren’t good. They can also be a bit jealous at times. People find this difficult to deal with in certain situations.

Gemini (May 21st – June 20th)

Face One: These people are the very definition of open-minded. They accept people without judging them. Free-spirited is how they are often described. They look forward to new challenges.

Face Two: Their impulsive nature pushes them to make a percentage of their decisions as unfavorable. It is best to stay away when they’re in a bad mood.

Cancer (June 21st – July 22nd)

Face One: Cancer people give the best advice! They are great listeners and even greater friends. Compassion is a virtue they uphold and they genuinely feel other people’s emotions.

Face Two: Oftentimes they get emotionally drained because of their sensitive nature. When they feel misunderstood, they see it best to avoid the situation and it can leave them feeling depressed.

Leo (July 23rd – August 22nd)

Face One: They possess unbelievable charm and tend to be extremely popular. They use this to become effective leaders. Their humor is off-the-charts as well.

Face Two: They come off as arrogant and extremely full of themselves. Leo’s tend to look down upon others and subconsciously never see them as equals.

Virgo (August 23rd – September 22nd)

Face One: Their rationality and inclination to logic helps them in critical decision making. Virgo’s have a valid and brilliant solution to almost anything.

Face Two: Their minds never seem to stop working and it tires them. When something goes out of their control, they stress.

Libra (September 23rd – October 22nd)

Face One: You won’t find Libras in any kind of crisis. Stability comes naturally to them, and kindness with balance is their way of life.

Face Two: They tend to avoid confrontation and sometimes prefer to run away. They are sometimes unable to realize that not everything can be balanced, and this overwhelms them.

Scorpio (October 23rd – November 21st)

Face One: They have an incomparably quick wit and sense of humor; causing them to be the popular ones in a group. They value their freedom and are extremely passionate about their dreams.

Face Two: Never get into their bad side, for they do not easily let things slide.

Sagittarius (November 22nd – December 21st)

Face One: They are fun to be with and they have the ability to bring out the bright side of every situation. Due to their joyful aura, they have a wide circle of friends.

Face Two: Sagittarius have difficulty focusing. They are easily distracted from their goals, causing frustration. They also lose interest in things easily.

Capricorn (December 22nd – January 19th)

Face One: Hardworking individuals who put in huge amounts of effort in whatever endeavor they are pursuing. It is not easy to change their minds because they are headstrong, but this makes them successful.

Face Two: They become arrogant and boastful once they achieve success. They tend not to adjust to others around them, offering their way or the highway.

Aquarius (January 20th – February 18th)

Face One: They love to explore and immerse themselves in the cultures of new people. Turning down an opportunity to experience new and exciting things is not an option for them. Challenges bring them to life.

Face Two: They can be difficult partners in a relationship due to their unavailability; as they are always on some sort of an adventure. They love to wander off and that is their only goal in life, which can leave their lover feeling undervalued.

Pisces (February 19th – March 20th)

Face One: Aside from being faithful, sensitive and caring, these people know the value of keeping promises. Once they make a promise, they shall keep it no matter what. Integrity is their beautiful virtue.

Face Two: Many Pisces are introverts and prefer to withdraw from common situations. If necessary, they will cut people off completely. Privacy is of utmost importance to them.

“Knowing your weaknesses is as important as knowing your strengths.”

Butterflies are powerful representations of life and each month of the year has a specific butterfly associated with it. Butterflies are symbols of hope and transformation, and are some of the most  beautiful living creatures on Earth. Scroll down to see what your birth month butterfly reveals about your personality.

January:

You are a great listener. You have a big heart and everyone loves you for your positive attitude. You are as precious and as beautiful as a butterfly and you tend to light up a room when you enter. You might not have noticed but people like to turn to you because of your warm aura.

February:

You are a head-turner. Everyone looks the moment you enter the room. You appear so vibrant because of your confidence and encompassing charm, and people can’t keep their eyes off of you. People either love you intensely or they don’t.

March:

You’re a fighter and you never give up regardless of how hard the situation is. That is your best quality. You trust your instincts and intuition. You are a driven individual with a zest for life and you have a deep side to your personality.

April:

You’re not ashamed to show your feelings. You feel things deeply  and people love your sensitive side. You make the world a better place because of your innate tranquillity and peaceful attitude.

May:

You’re an extraordinary person! Your perfect exterior is a subject of insecurity from others. But those who truly know you love you just the way you are! You would cross the oceans for your friends and family, are they can depend on your strength.

June:

The world is a better place with you in it. You are a wonderful person and your deep sense of peace is reassuring to others. You’re sensitive and able to intuitively perceive people’s wishes, so trust your intuition more! You also make an amazing partner.

July:

Your bravery is commendable and it makes your character quite powerful. But you also have a very sensitive side that you seldom show. You show people kindness and respect all of the time. The world needs more people like you.

August:

Your incredible honesty is admired by those around you. Not a lot of people can admit when they’ve made a mistake the way that you can. You have this certain quality combined with being humble that makes people easily trust you. While you have good reason to be admired, you certainly love being the center of attention.

September:

You are a person with a splendid imagination and an insatiable curiosity. Even if everything goes not according to your plan, you’re still aware of your goal and how you’ll reach it. This is admired by your colleagues and they are ready to follow in your footsteps.

October:

You deal with problems successfully and with a strong determination and unbeatable energy while keeping your life in perfect balance. You have a kind heart and you’re a great listener. Helping others and paying attention to them is what you do best. Not everyone is able to appreciate all of the good that you do, but this doesn’t sway your faithful heart.

November:

You are quite the observer! Your head is always full of bright ideas and concepts. Not a lot of people will understand that you live in your own world. You keep yourself grounded even though your head is often in the clouds imagining wonderful situations and future ideas.

December:

You’ve been through a lot in your life and you’ve come so far. An amazing thing about you is that you never stop striving for the best and growing is your passion. You’re emotional and you’re not afraid to show it. People love this about you.

“The butterfly counts not months but moments, and has time enough.”