If you have depression, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, or social anxiety disorder, you may have times when it's difficult to be involved with friends and family the way you used to be.

You can do a lot to help others understand what you're going through. By helping them understand what you're experiencing, you'll be able to pave the way for better communication. Even people close to you may not know enough to be able to give you the support you need.

To involve yourself again with family and friends, you often have to take the first step. Select times of the day or week when you're at your best, and use the following guidelines.

Involving Your Partner

When you are depressed, keep in mind that your partner may be going through a difficult time as well. He or she may feel stress about your situation and may feel angry or blame you for being depressed.

Be patient and try to explain that you are doing as much as you can to get better, including taking your medication as instructed by your doctor. You can also say that there are some times when you just want someone to listen to you, and other times when you'd appreciate feedback or advice.

You might want to ask if both of you should see a therapist together. Different forms of talk therapy (psychotherapy) have been shown to help when used in combination with medication.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, more than 80% of patients with depression show at least some improvement when they receive appropriate treatment with medication, talk therapy, or both.

Involving Your Children

If you're a mother or father with depression, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, or social anxiety disorder, it may be a challenge to be the kind of parent you want to be. But it's important that you talk to your children honestly about what's happening in your life.

Although very young children may understand only a little, older children may choose to probe more deeply or avoid the issue altogether. To help make it easier for your children to understand and cope with the situation, you may want to consider the following:

• Family counseling — this can be an excellent way to help strengthen relationships among family members. It can provide a way for everyone to come together to try to better understand the situation.
• Age-appropriate books — they help children learn about depression and understand that they are not alone in their concerns about your condition.

Involving Others

Although your main goal may be to stay close to your immediate family, you may find that friends and other relatives can be helpful. When you're feeling up to it, select one person or several people you trust and draw them into your confidence. Talk to them about your condition, and direct them to resources to learn more about your condition.

If it's difficult for you to meet them in a social setting, you might want to start out with one phone call or e-mail exchange a week. By keeping lines of communication open, you can widen your circle of support — and, in turn, everyone benefits.

• Resources for More Information and Support
• Relaxation and Coping Techniques
• Talking With Friends and Family
• Support Information for Friends and Family