How do you boost someone’s morale?
Written by: Loris Vitry (holistic coach)
Validated by: Cathy Maillot (Osteopath)
Caution: If you have any medical questions or concerns, please speak to your doctor. Even if the articles on this site are based on scientific studies, they do not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
A breakup, a dismissal, an accident or the loss of a loved one are events that can easily put someone in a state of depression.
We also talk about blues.
The stress in our lives has a lot to do with it; we are now seeing an increase in burnouts.
We may not be able to solve the problems of our loved ones in these cases, but there are ways to cheer them up.
Here are a few of them.
Listening
It may be a trivial act or gesture, but listening to the one in pain can make all the difference.
The depressed friend often feels isolated in their suffering, a sensation that cuts them off from the world and others.
Listening to her during these times allows her to reconnect with the world through you.
Some will find it hard to put words to what they are feeling, so don’t rush it.
For those who will speak, just listen.
If you have had a similar experience, feel free to share it, but always without monopolizing the conversation.
The other must have priority.
For example, you can just ask a question, and then wait for the answer.
It is important not to force the conversation.
Each individual has their own way of dealing with trauma, it is necessary to know how to respect it.
Be present
Obviously, you too have a life, occupations, a job or a family, but being there for a loved one who is depressed is important.
If you are having difficulty being physically present, send them messages.
These do not necessarily have to revolve around his condition.
You can send him funny messages, unusual information that you will have found on the internet and that you know can make him smile.
If you can be physically there, share meals with him, or movies, sitting with him on his couch.
Try to get him to move, but without putting too much pressure on him.
Often people who are depressed or depressed find it difficult to socialize, even for the most basic things.
Offer to go with her to return her novel to the library, or to do her shopping at the supermarket.
He will probably be more inclined to leave his sofa knowing that you are by his side.
Make it move
Getting active is often the last thing a low morale person wants to do.
Of course, there are exceptions.
Depression in some people can manifest itself as overactivity which is sometimes dangerous.
In the vast majority of cases, people with depression have difficulty getting out of bed.
If you have to give time to the other, you should not let them sink into their melancholy.
So, start slowly, with a walk for example.
The sun provides the body with vitamin D which effectively acts on the hormones responsible for well-being.
However, care must be taken to protect the skin to avoid sunburn.
Focus on outdoor activities, but if possible, avoid those that will take place in crowded places.
Crowds can quickly create a stressful reaction in an individual with weakened mental health.
The calm, the fresh air and the sun will be interesting for people who are depressed.
If the first outings go well, you can then think about activities that are a little more physical, such as jogging or hiking.
Exercise releases endorphins in the body which promote a good mood and a feeling of pleasure.
Change his mind positively
In order to lend an attentive ear to a loved one in pain, one can very quickly let them sink into their gloom, letting them relate again and again the tragedy they have experienced.
After a while, you have to know how to discuss less sad subjects with others.
You have to be tactful, remain delicate on sensitive subjects.
One idea might be to bring up happy events from your common past.
This trip you had taken, this party you had been on, and slowly, from those happy moments of the past, make the connection with the present.
It would be interesting to try to make the other understand that the happiness, which he has known, can once again inhabit his life.
Watch series, or funny movies with him.
Play board games or both sign up for classes that will keep you entertained.
We can think of Zumba, cooking, or pottery.
Think about the music.
We all have this really sad song that we like to play over and over when things go wrong.
Your loved one too, no doubt.
And that’s not a bad thing.
But once in a while, on a visit to his house or on a road trip, put on a catchy song that you know he likes.
Sing at the top of your lungs together, play around if possible.
It can only do him good.
However, it should be noted that upbeat and upbeat songs are not effective at the onset of depression or burnout.
In the aftermath of trauma, listening to a song about the beauty of life is the last thing you need.
For that, you have to leave a little time.
Lend him your pet
If you have a particularly cuddly, cheerful pet, you can lend it to your depressed friend.
Animals are known for their ability to improve mental and psychological health.
If you have time, take your loved one out to play with your pet in the park, or run with them on the beach.
This kind of activity will be good for each of you.
With depression, it is always best to see your loved one for professional advice.
While depression counts as a condition, depression is an illness that laymen can often have difficulty diagnosing.
In the case of prolonged black thoughts, loss of interest in everything over a period of at least 15 days, you should encourage your loved one to consult.
Nothing prevents you from applying the few tips below at the same time.
They can only do him good.
Continue reading:
How to love yourself in order to love the other?
