For the People Who Love Someone with Depression
06 of 07You can’t fix their depression. But you can help them feel less alone in it.
What can help
- Keep showing up, even when they don’t reply. A short message with no pressure to respond: “Thinking of you. No need to reply.”
- Offer specific, practical help rather than “let me know if you need anything”. Try: “I’m dropping dinner over on Tuesday” or “Can I take the kids on Saturday?”
- Listen without trying to fix it, just hold space without judgement.
- Do quiet things together: watch a show, sit in the garden, go for a drive.
- Gently encourage professional support, and offer to help find it or go along.
What to avoid
- “Just exercise,” “Think positive,” “Other people have it worse,” or “You have so much to be grateful for.”
- Taking their withdrawal personally. Depression can make people pull away from the people they love most.
- Pushing them to do too much at once.
If you’re worried about their safety
If they talk about not wanting to be here, or you’re worried they might harm themselves, ask them directly. Asking won’t put the idea in their head. Stay with them if you can, and get help through Need help now.
Look after yourself too
Supporting someone with depression can be draining. You are allowed to have limits, rest and get support for yourself.
