• Apr 30
• Mental Health Treatment

Supporting a Loved One with Depression

**Seek immediate help if someone you know has expressed thoughts of suicide.  

When someone you care about is struggling with depression, it can be overwhelming and difficult to know how to help. Whether it’s your friend, family member, partner, or someone else in your life, your support can be a meaningful part of their journey toward healing. Here are some thoughtful, practical ways to offer support with empathy and care:

1. Listen Without Judgement

Sometimes, the best thing you can offer is your presence. Letting your loved one talk openly and saying “I’m here for you” can sometimes be more powerful than advice.

2. Educate Yourself

Understanding the nature of depression is key to offering effective support. It’s not just sadness—it’s a complex mental health condition that affects mood, energy levels, motivation, sleep, appetite, and more. Familiarizing yourself with its symptoms and challenges can help you respond with greater empathy and awareness.

3. Encourage Professional Help

Professional resources are often essential for those struggling with depression. There are a number of resources available, and offering assistance finding professional care and scheduling appointments can encourage them to take the next step toward recovery.

4. Celebrate Small Wins

Getting out of bed, going to therapy, or simply making it through the day can be huge victories for someone with depression. Acknowledging and celebrating these moments can be create extra encouragement and motivation.

5. Offer Practical Help

Depression can make everyday tasks feel overwhelming. Offering to help with groceries, cooking, cleaning, or errands can alleviate some of their stress.

6. Avoid Minimizing Their Experience

While it may seem helpful to remind your loved one to focus on the positives, this could be perceived as minimizing their symptoms. It’s important to remember that depression is a clinical disorder that goes beyond the typical feelings of sadness that most people experience. 

7. Take Care of Yourself

Supporting someone with depression can be emotionally taxing. Set boundaries when needed and don’t be afraid to seek support for yourself.

While you may not be able to take away your loved one’s pain, your ongoing presence, patience, and understanding can provide vital comfort and hope. Your support likely won’t cure their depression, but it will remind them that they are not alone on their journey. 

Help is Available 

If you or a loved one is struggling with mental health, resources are available. Gateway Foundation offers personalized, evidence-based mental health treatment specific to your needs. Call 877-505-HOPE for more information.