Social networking is part of many people’s lives now. It’s how most of us connect with our friends anywhere in the world. This is where we share important highlights of our life. For some, it’s also a venue for sharing what we are going through, good or bad.
For those in the medical and healthcare field, Facebook or Twitter is where they can make announcements and big news about their career. For example, those who just graduated from paramedic to RN programs can share their experiences via social media. Sharing this kind of news and getting support and well wishes from family and friends allows them to feel special and well loved.
Social networking is also a way for patients to have a 24-hour support. By simply signing up in a social networking site, patients not only share about what they are going through, but they also get to know what their other friends or family are doing. Having a support system made up of friends and family is very essential for those patients who are suffering from depression.
Another venue for support is to join online support groups. Patients can register at forums, which are relevant to them and their experiences. Of course, joining forums or online support groups need to use with caution. It is important for patients not to use their real name. Using a nickname is a safer idea. By using a nickname, patients lessen the possibility of becoming targets of online predators.
Before signing up for support groups, it is important for patients to do some background research on the site. This will give them a clear idea of what the site is like and how relevant and helpful it is to them. Patients should only choose highly recommended and reputable forums and support groups.
Facebook pages, for example, are another way for patients to know more about their depression and how they can overcome it. These pages have campaigns, motivational stories and photos that are truly helpful for patients. Also, the comments made by those who also like the page include stories of personal struggles and achievements by other people. This makes the experience more inspiring and motivational for patients and patients’ families and friends.
The bottom line is, depression can be overcome by a myriad of ways, including social networking. Whether it’s online or personal interaction, the important thing for patients is to connect with people and to know that there are people who are there for them.