It is important to understand for yourself what “outside help” means to you, as well as knowing when you need to access it. These are all personal choices, similar to the choice we have in any of our healthcare. However, it is important to realize that not wanting outside help, even from friends and family, can be symptoms of depression in which a person isolates themselves because they feel like a burden or feel weak for having depression. Some different definitions of “outside help” might be:  Some people might consider “outside help” to include the use of psychotropic medication to help depression Others might still seek therapy but otherwise will go the “all-natural” route. Others may not want to see a therapist because they feel stigmatized, crazy, or burdensome. Some people may not even want “outside help” from friends and family. It's important to realize that depression is not who you are. It is an illness like any other. Do not let the dysfunctional, automatic thoughts about being a burden or being weak deter you from engaging socially with friends and family and seeking their support when you need it. Social support is a critical, protective factor against depression and loneliness.  In fact, research shows that having social support decreases stress and can help find solutions to problems, especially for those who are struggling with depression.  Furthermore, social support is the number one way to combat loneliness because it can help you feel connected to others and connected to life. Possibly you want to feel like you have the power to combat depression and conquer it alone. While this is admirable, remember that your mental health is your first priority over your mastery of fighting depression.  Pinpoint who you will call and have a plan about which kind of outside help you will seek if you do reach a point in needing acute care for depression. This type of plan is a safety plan and will include names of friends, family, doctors, and emergency numbers to call if you need help. For example, you can type up a list that includes several important phone numbers: phone numbers for your mother, your best friend, your doctor, and an emergency nurse or hospital. Also include the National Suicide Hotline number (1-800-273-8255), and the phone numbers for local police and 911. Tell them how they can help if you do call in the future. Give them specific tasks that may be helpful to you, if you are not in immediate danger. For example, they could just keep you company until you feel you are not a threat to yourself. In other cases, you may need them to contact your doctor or take you to the emergency department for an evaluation. If you have thoughts of suicide, or you can no longer function in daily life, resolve to seek outside help. Call the National Suicide Hotline number (1-800-273-8255), or call 911.
قم بتحديد ما تعنيه "المساعدة الخارجية" بالنسبة لك. حاول ألا تتجنب الدعم الاجتماعي. ضع خطة آمنة. أخبر الناس على قائمة الاتصال تلك بخطتك. استجلب المساعدة فورًا إن كنت ذا ميول انتحارية.