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Depression – How can I talk to someone close to me about how I am feeling? · Wellbeing Solutions - Ask A Counsellor

• 0:00
  SPEAKER_00: Opening up to someone about how you're feeling can feel daunting, especially if you're worried about being judged, misunderstood, or becoming upset.
• 0:08
  SPEAKER_00: However, sharing what you're going through with someone you trust can help you feel less alone and make it easier to access the support you need.
• 0:15
  SPEAKER_00: Here are some things that could help.
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  SPEAKER_00: Choose someone you trust.
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  SPEAKER_00: Think about someone you feel comfortable talking to and who is likely to listen without judgment.
• 0:24
  SPEAKER_00: Find a time that feels right.
• 0:26
  SPEAKER_00: If possible, choose a quiet, private time when you're unlikely to be interrupted or rushed.
• 0:31
  SPEAKER_00: Start small and be honest.
• 0:33
  SPEAKER_00: You don't need to explain everything at once.
• 0:35
  SPEAKER_00: You could start by sharing that you haven't been feeling like yourself or that you've noticed changes in your moods or behaviour.
• 0:41
  SPEAKER_00: Let them know what you need.
• 0:43
  SPEAKER_00: You might want someone to just listen.
• 0:45
  SPEAKER_00: You might want them to give you reassurance or to help you find further support.
• 0:49
  SPEAKER_00: Letting them know what could help you in that moment can make the conversation feel easier.
• 0:55
  SPEAKER_00: Write it down if talking feels too difficult.
• 0:58
  SPEAKER_00: You could write a letter, send a message, or make a few notes to help you explain how you've been feeling.
• 1:05
  SPEAKER_00: Finding the right words can be difficult, especially when you're already feeling low.
• 1:09
  SPEAKER_00: You don't have to explain everything perfectly.
• 1:12
  SPEAKER_00: The first step is simply letting someone know that you're struggling.
• 1:15
  SPEAKER_00: Here are a few examples of how you could start.
• 1:18
  SPEAKER_00: I've been feeling really low lately and I wanted to share how I'm feeling with you.
• 1:22
  SPEAKER_00: I don't really need you to fix anything, I just really appreciate if you could listen and try to understand.
• 1:28
  SPEAKER_00: Or, I haven't been feeling like myself for a while, and I think I need someone to talk to.
• 1:33
  SPEAKER_00: Would you have some time to listen?
• 1:36
  SPEAKER_00: Or, I'm finding it difficult to talk about my feelings, and I'm worried about being judged, but I trust you and I really want to talk to you about what I've been going through.
• 1:45
  SPEAKER_00: Opening up can feel vulnerable, and it can be upsetting if the other person doesn't respond in the way you hope.
• 1:51
  SPEAKER_00: Remember, their response does not make your feelings any less valid.
• 1:56
  SPEAKER_00: If you are thinking about harming yourself or feel unsafe, please seek urgent help now via a local emergency number or crisis line.