Watching someone you care about struggle with depression can be heartbreaking. You may notice changes in their behavior, mood, or daily routine, and feel unsure of what to say or how to support them. Depression is more than just feeling sad—it’s a serious mental health condition that affects how a person thinks, feels, and functions. While you can’t fix it for them, you can help a loved one with depression by supporting them and providing resources for treatment.
At Excel Behavioral Health, we believe that family and friends play a critical role in the recovery process. Knowing how to help a loved one with depression can provide comfort, encourage them to seek treatment, and ultimately support their path to healing.
Recognize the Signs of Depression
The first step in helping someone is recognizing the signs of depression. Not everyone experiences depression in the same way, but there are some common symptoms to look out for:
- Persistent sadness or hopelessness
- Loss of interest in activities once enjoyed
- Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
- Difficulty concentrating or making decisions
- Low energy or fatigue
- Feelings of worthlessness or guilt
- Withdrawing from friends and family
- Talking about death or suicide
If you notice several of these symptoms lasting more than two weeks, it may indicate that your loved one is experiencing depression. Trust your instincts—if something feels off, it’s worth paying attention.
Approach a Loved One with Depression with Compassion
It can be hard to know what to say when someone you care about is hurting. But reaching out, even if you’re unsure of the right words, can help your loved one feel less alone.
When approaching them, speak from a place of concern and compassion. Try saying something like:
“I’ve noticed you haven’t seemed like yourself lately, and I just want you to know I’m here for you.”
“I care about you, and I’m worried. Would you be open to talking about how you’re feeling?”
Avoid minimizing their experience with phrases like “snap out of it” or “everyone feels that way sometimes.” Depression is not a choice or a weakness—it’s a medical condition that needs care and support.
Listen Without Judgment
Sometimes, the best thing you can do to help a loved one with depression is simply listen. Give your loved one the space to share what they’re going through without trying to fix it or offer advice right away. Listening with empathy and without judgment helps them feel seen and validated.
Use active listening skills, such as maintaining eye contact, nodding, and reflecting back what they’ve said, to show you’re engaged. If they’re not ready to talk, let them know you’re available whenever they feel comfortable opening up.
Encourage Professional Help
While your support is important, depression often requires treatment from a mental health professional. Encourage your loved one to seek help from a therapist, psychiatrist, or treatment program. Offer to help with research, schedule an appointment, or go with them for support.
You can say something like:
“I think talking to a professional could really help. I’d be happy to help you find someone or go with you to your first visit.”
If they’re hesitant, remind them that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Depression can make it hard to take action, so your encouragement may be the push they need.
Be Patient and Supportive to Help Your Loved One with Depression
Recovery from depression is a process, not a quick fix. There may be ups and downs along the way, and it’s important to remain patient. Avoid putting pressure on your loved one to “get better” quickly or return to their old self overnight.
Instead, focus on offering consistent support. Check in regularly, invite them to do low-pressure activities, and celebrate small wins. Let them know that it’s okay to have bad days and that you’ll be there no matter what.
Take Care of Yourself, Too
Caring for someone with depression can be emotionally draining. Make sure you’re setting boundaries, managing your own stress, and seeking support when needed. You can’t pour from an empty cup; taking care of yourself enables you to remain a steady presence for your loved one.
Consider speaking with a therapist, joining a support group for families, or exploring healthy outlets for managing your emotions. Supporting someone else doesn’t mean neglecting your own well-being.
Know When to Seek Emergency Help
If your loved one talks about suicide or shows signs that they may harm themselves, it’s important to take it seriously. Don’t leave them alone, and seek immediate help from a mental health crisis service, hospital, or 911 if needed. Let them know you care and that their life matters.
Contact Excel Treatment Center to Help a Loved One with Depression
If someone you care about is struggling with depression, they don’t have to face it alone—and neither do you. At Excel Behavioral Health, we offer compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals living with depression and other mental health conditions. Our team offers a range of services, including therapy, medication management, and structured outpatient programs that support long-term recovery and healing.
Whether your loved one needs immediate treatment or just a safe space to talk, we’re here to help. Our admissions team can guide you through the process and answer any questions you have about treatment options.
Contact Excel Behavioral Health today to learn more about how we can support your loved one’s recovery—and help your family move forward with hope and healing.
