What should be done if a patient with severe depression refuses to go to the hospital?

For patients with severe depression who refuse to go to the hospital, empathetic communication, streamlining procedures, involving trusted individuals, reducing stigma, and providing support can help guide them toward care. Detailed strategies are as follows:

1. Empathetic Communication: Avoid blame or coercion. Gently listen to the patient's concerns—such as doubts about treatment effectiveness or fear of discrimination—and validate their feelings. Gradually convey the importance of medical care to reduce resistance.

2. Streamline the Process: Research hospital visit procedures in advance, schedule doctor appointments, and prepare medical records. Inform the patient that they only need to engage in simple conversations, minimizing fear of complex or overwhelming medical procedures.

3. Involve Trusted Individuals: Invite someone the patient trusts—a family member, friend, or teacher—to accompany them. This person can help persuade the patient and provide emotional security, making the patient feel they are not facing the situation alone.

4. Reduce Stigma: Emphasize that depression is a common medical condition. Share recovery stories and explain that seeking medical help is a normal part of treatment, helping eliminate feelings of shame and reducing psychological burden.

5. Provide Support: Clearly assure the patient of continuous companionship after seeking care, and offer practical help with issues during treatment, such as transportation or accommodation. This helps ensure the patient feels secure and reduces anxiety about what comes after就医.

Patience is essential throughout this process; progress should not be rushed. If the patient continues to resist, consider contacting community doctors or mental health intervention services for an at-home assessment, to prevent worsening symptoms due to delays. Always prioritize the patient’s feelings and proceed gradually in facilitating medical care.