Supporting someone through depression, anxiety or other issues can bring challenges.
Especially when that support may be necessary for long periods of time.
Yet wisdom to support that journey can be found in the simple world of The Hundred Acre Wood. This infographic sums up a healing approach so very well. Eeyore's friends included him, loved him and accepted him just as he was. He was not a project they needed to fix. Eeyore's friends quietly trusted that he was in charge of the details of his life. His needs were not a daily topic for discussion.
It's also true that Eeyore's talk is not matched by his walk: he does get up and does get about, and he does join in with adventures and outings. For many with Depression, that is simply not possible.
Another truth is that Eeyore's friends don't demonstrate the signs of weariness, resentment and irritation that can be common for supporters of those with needs. And that's the fiction at work.
Counselling support is recognised as being crucial for those with depression or other issues. Research indicates that a tandem approach of medication and counselling brings the best long term results.
Counselling support, from a different counsellor, is also crucial for supporters. Supporters absolutely need their own support network.
So, there is wisdom in the way Eeyore's friends loved him through his issues. Draw on that.
Yet also know that, sadly, we don't live in The Hundred Acre Wood. We do all need the approach used by Eeyore's friends, and we also need many other strategies to successfully support someone with long term needs.
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