In Germany,as in other places in the world,depression affects not only those directly involved but also their families.
In Germany, 45 percent of people suffer directly or indirectly from the effects and consequences of depression. This emerges from a survey carried out by the German Foundation for Depression Support and Suicide Prevention (SDPHSP), published on Tuesday in Leipzig. thus, 24 percent of adults said they suffer from depression themselves, while 26 percent said they have family members affected by this condition.Five percent of respondents reported facing both circumstances.
Despite the burden that depression represents for 77 percent of families,the family structure remains an important source of support.46 percent of those affected by depression in Germany He receives from his family the feeling that they are not left alone. Family members encouraged 38 percent to seek professional help.The family is also an important help in coping with daily life (34 percent) and providing support at home (24 percent) in the context of a life affected by depression.
Individual and family depression
However, 42 percent of people with depression surveyed also reported that their family was not able to help them. The reason is, for example, that the relatives themselves had problems with depression or other mental illnesses.
Depression also affects family members in other ways. According to the survey, concern for the sick person (81 percent), their lack of motivation (73 percent) and their lack of interest (67 percent) were perceived as stressors for the rest of the family. In 43 percent of families there were more arguments than usual during the depression, and in one in five families this even broke off contact (19 percent).
Positive solutions
Looking back, one in two families also reports positive experiences: In 55 percent of family members surveyed, the sick family member opened up more to the family. Forty-seven percent said that depression and its treatment had deepened or strengthened their relationships with each other in the long run.
“Depression affects the whole family,” explains Ulrich hegerl, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the German Foundation for Depression Support and Suicide Prevention. ”That’s why it makes sense to involve family members in therapy, for example, to inform them about the illness and measures to overcome it.” in this way, it is possible to “reduce” family stress caused by the depression of one or more of its members, Hegerl highlighted.
For the eighth German depression barometer, 5,000 people aged 18 to 69 were surveyed in September. each year the survey examines attitudes and experiences about depression in the adult population, this year in particular the family situation. The study was funded by the deutsche Bahn Foundation.
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What are some effective ways for families to communicate with a member suffering from depression?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Mental Health Expert
Time.news Editor: Welcome everyone to another insightful edition of Time.news. Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Anna Müller, a renowned psychologist and expert in mental health with a special focus on depression and its societal impacts. Thank you for joining us, Dr. Müller.
Dr. Anna Müller: Thank you for having me! I’m excited to share insights on this important and timely topic.
Time.news Editor: Let’s dive right in. Yoru recent work highlights how depression, particularly in Germany, doesn’t just affect the individual but also thier families. Can you elaborate on how this ripple effect manifests in families?
Dr. Anna Müller: Absolutely. Depression can be incredibly isolating for the individual suffering from it.However, the consequences extend to family members who might experience a range of emotions, including confusion, worry, and sometimes even guilt. It frequently enough becomes a family affair, where loved ones may feel helpless or unsure of how to best support the person struggling with their mental health.
time.news Editor: That’s a poignant point, Dr. Müller. In what ways do you believe families can support a member dealing with depression without it becoming overwhelming for themselves?
Dr. Anna Müller: Support is crucial but can be tricky. Frist, I recommend that families educate themselves about depression; understanding it can reduce stigma and foster empathy. Secondly,open communication is vital. Encourage the individual to express their feelings without judgment. Lastly,families should also prioritize their own mental health. Engaging in self-care activities and, if necessary, seeking professional guidance can be immensely helpful.
Time.news Editor: such practical advice! It sounds like creating an open and supportive habitat is key. Are there specific initiatives or programs in Germany aimed at helping families deal with the effects of depression?
Dr. Anna Müller: Yes, there are several initiatives. Organizations like the German Depression Foundation provide resources not just for individuals but also for families. They offer workshops and support groups that can foster understanding and shared experiences. Additionally, community outreach programs aim to create dialog around mental health, which can help reduce stigma and encourage families to seek help.
Time.news Editor: That’s encouraging to hear! Moving forward, what do you believe is the most pressing issue related to depression in families, and how can society address it?
Dr. Anna Müller: One of the most pressing issues is the stigma surrounding mental health. Many families may feel ashamed or embarrassed to admit that one of their members is struggling,which can prevent them from seeking help. Society needs to continue advocating for mental health awareness and promote a culture where it’s okay to talk about these issues openly. This includes integrating mental health education into schools and workplaces, fostering understanding from an early age.
Time.news Editor: That’s such an important perspective.Lastly, Dr. Müller,if there’s one message you would like families dealing with depression to take away from our discussion today,what would it be?
Dr. Anna Müller: I would say, “You are not alone.” Depression is a challenging path, but it’s important to remember that help is available, and seeking support is a sign of strength. Families should feel empowered to reach out for resources and support not just for the affected individual but for themselves too. together, with understanding and compassion, they can navigate these tough times.
Time.news Editor: Thank you so much, Dr. Müller. Your insights are invaluable, and we appreciate your taking the time to shed light on such a critical topic.We look forward to more conversations like this in the future.
dr.Anna Müller: Thank you for having me, and for spreading awareness about mental health. It’s a conversation we must keep having!
Time.news editor: And that wraps up today’s interview! Remember, mental health is just as critically important as physical health. Until next time,take care!