How to Support a Loved One Through Depression

Depression is a harmful, insidious mental disorder that can make it hard to experience joy, satisfaction, or any emotion at all. And unfortunately, it doesn’t just touch the people it affects directly. It can be very difficult to see a loved one struggle with depression, and sometimes, just knowing how to show someone you support them can feel impossibly far away.

But there are ways to support someone as they cope with depression. And you can make a difference, even just by being there for your loved one. 

At Mind and Body Medicine, LLC, we offer mental health treatment for a number of disorders, including depression. Tamara McDonald, DNP, provides caring, holistic therapy that puts you at the center of your own wellness program whether you have depression, another mental disorder, or simply want to help support a loved one. 

One of the best things you can do to support a loved one with depression is to learn a little about it. Everyone gets depressed sometimes, feeling sad, lonely, or empty for a little while. Often, we’re able to continue on, and eventually, these feelings go away. However, struggling with depression as a disorder causes symptoms that make it hard to cope with daily life.

There are multiple types of depression. Major depression causes severe symptoms that last for more than two weeks, while persistent depressive disorder can cause more minor symptoms that last for as long as several years. Seasonal affective disorder, perinatal depression, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and bipolar disorder are also types of depression.

More people also seem to be struggling with depression than before. A 2022 study found feelings of depression among both adults and adolescents increased dramatically between 2015 and 2020 with no equivalent jump in treatment. This is a serious problem in our society today, but your loved one is lucky to have someone like you who wants to support them.

Helping someone with this disorder won’t look the same all the time. Different people’s depression will manifest in different ways, and the types, symptoms, length, and more will all depend on the individual. But here are some of the best tips for encouraging someone you love while they go through this difficult time. 

It’s common to want to help someone you care about feel better if they’re sad. But going into it with an expectation that you’ll fix or cure the problem will actually make things worse for both of you. Instead, remember the goal is to support, not solve.

Start a dialogue 
It’s a good idea to be honest with the other person, to tell them something like, “I’m concerned for you, and I care for you. I’ve noticed that you seem to be having a hard time. Would you like to talk to me about it?” However, if they’re not ready, try not to take it personally.

Offer hope and help, not judgment 
Often, people attempt to suggest that a loved one start exercising or eating better to manage their depression. But trying to get someone to change isn’t the best way to support them. Instead, say things like, “You're not alone,” “Things will get better,” and “I’m here for you.”

Encourage treatment
If the person seems to want treatment but is nervous to seek it out, remind them there’s nothing wrong with getting help. Depression is a disorder that requires treatment just like any other. It can also help to offer your assistance in seeking treatment or to recommend that you get therapy together.

Just be there 
One of the most important things you can do for someone going through depression is to be there for them. Call and text, invite them to spend time together in a no-pressure way, and tell them you care. These kinds of acts will remind them they aren’t alone.

Don’t forget about yourself
It’s common for people supporting a friend or family member with depression to forget to care for themselves. But you can’t help anyone if you’re not in a stable place. Don’t neglect your own self-care in the process of supporting someone else. 

Even if you’re not depressed yourself, therapy could truly benefit you as well, and you’ll be able to better learn how to support yourself and your loved one.

Call 208-591-6410 or visit us online to make an appointment. We look forward to helping you.