How to help family member with depression

Hi. This is my first time here. My question is how do I help a family member with severe depression who refuses to go get help?

[brokenlight]

That’s such a difficult question to answer & I’m sure a difficult situation to be in.

In my opinion... just love them & support them. Remind them they are loved & supported as much as possible.

But also take care of yourself/boundaries in the process.

[dore13]

you can't. As much as you want to, if this person is an adult, you cannot make them do anything. It is a sad fact, unless this person tried to harm others or themselves, there is nothing you can do. There is an online support group called DBSA ( depression bipolar support alliance) It is a free website, and have meetings for different issues. They also have meetings for family members who are dealing with a person who has depression or is bipolar. You might want to check it out, and see if you get some support or even suggestions. Please make sure that if you are being supportive to this depressed person, that you are not being taken advantage of. Some, not all, depressed / bipolar people will vent their unhappiness on someone who is simple trying to help them. They transfer their misery and pain on you. Watch out for that, because that is manipulation, that is abuse!