This, and similar questions about siblings, extended family members, and friends are commonly heard by therapists.  There are a great deal of people that are affected by depression as they are bystanders to their loved one’s suffering, including a Depressed Brother.  Though you don’t have the power to rid your loved one of their depression, there are certainly things you can do to help to help them or a Depressed Brother.  These include:

• Showing Compassion
• Researching for Help
• Establishing Personal Boundaries
• Taking Care of Yourself

 Showing Compassion

When you see a Depressed Brother or a loved one suffering from depression, the most important thing to show them is compassion.  Reach out and let him know that you are concerned because you see he is unhappy, unmotivated, or uninterested in life in general.  Let your Depressed Brother or loved one know that you are there for him to provide support or help him to find the professional help he most likely needs.  Very often, coming together as a family and talking as a group to the Depressed Brother or suffering individual can allow them to recognize that there is a support system of people that care about him and have his best interest in mind.

Researching for Help

The next thing you can do on your own is to research depression.  Gain a solid understanding of the disorder and how it impacts those who have it.  The more you know about depression, the better you will be at supporting your Depressed Brother or loved one through their experience.  Also research the treatment of depression, including medication, therapy, and support groups.  Familiarize yourself with the best treatment options in your Depressed Brother or loved one’s area so that you may offer him educated suggestions.

 Establishing Personal Boundaries

When supporting your Depressed Brother or a loved one through depression, it is important to establish your own personal boundaries.  You want to make a conscious decision to separate the illness from your Depressed Brother or the individual who you are worried about.  Recognize that the illness comes with symptoms that are beyond Depressed Brother or loved ones control at times.  By doing this, you will not only be able to care for him more fully, but the depression will not change the way you feel about your Depressed Brother or loved one and the relationship you have.  You will also want to be aware of your own abilities in providing help and support to your Depressed Brother or loved one.  Establish boundaries for yourself in what you are willing and able to handle and when a professional should be consulted.

 Taking Care of Yourself

Finally, be sure to make self-care a priority.  If you are not at your best, you will not be able to provide the support you intend to your brother and you can easily get lost in the depression.  Take time for yourself and also be sure to spend “normal time” with your brother or loved one that is not focused solely on his depression.