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Depression is a mental health condition that can affect anyone — including our loved ones — for a lot of reasons. And it’s more common than you may think. In fact, according to the World Health Organization, more than 332 million people worldwide experience depression.1
If someone in your life has depression, it’s important to offer your support, hope, and encouragement. You may not be able to make their depression go away, but you can let them know there are ways to manage symptoms, and that you care and want to help them get better.
There’s no right or wrong way to be supportive. Each relationship is different, and so is everyone’s experience with depression. But there are several things you can do when trying to help someone with depression.
Understand common types of depression
There are many different types of depression, including:
- Major depressive disorder: Persistent feelings of gloom, despair, and inability to feel joy
- Bipolar disorder: Extreme mood swings and emotional highs and lows
- Perinatal and postpartum depression: Depression that happens during or right after a pregnancy
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder: Severe physical or emotional symptoms that occur before the menstrual cycle
- Seasonal affective disorder: Depression that occurs at the same time yearly, usually fall or winter
- Situational depression: A short-term, stress-related condition due to a life event
Each type of depression can affect a person in different ways and at different points in their life. For example, if someone is going through a traumatic event or situation, like a stressful move or a painful breakup, they might be experiencing situational depression. For someone else who starts to feel depressed right after having a baby, it may be more likely they are experiencing postpartum depression.
Recognize the signs of depression
It can be difficult to know when someone is depressed. Some people try to hide their symptoms — even from the people they’re closest to. And many people are dealing with increased stress and anxiety in their daily lives. But it’s important to look and listen for warning signs so you can speak up if you think something’s wrong.
Symptoms of depression can include:
- Expressing a hopeless or negative outlook on life
- Showing loss of interest in things they used to enjoy
- Feelings of shame, guilt, or worthlessness
- Sleeping or eating too little or too much
- Fatigue, difficulty concentrating, or achiness
- Talking about death or suicide2
Talk about it
If you notice someone is showing depression warning signs, talk to them right away. Even if it’s just a gut feeling, or a small sign that something isn’t right, it’s important to start the conversation.
You can support the people in your life by speaking up and encouraging them to find support. Let them know that depression is common — and help is available. Not sure what to say to someone who might be depressed? Visit our support page for guidance.
Help them find the right professional help
The best thing you can do for someone who’s experiencing depression is help them find support. You can start by encouraging them to talk with their doctor. Depression is treated in different ways — and their doctor can help them find the right treatment options. From therapy to medication and other self-help resources, a doctor or health care professional can help guide someone with depression and find a treatment plan that helps them feel better.
Even if a friend or family member is getting treatment, it’s still a good idea to check in and stay connected. Call them to see how they’re doing, send a text, or offer to help run errands like a grocery trip. Even if it’s a small gesture, it’s important to show them you care. Remember that the most important thing you can do is to let them know they’re loved and encourage them to take action.
Take care of yourself, too
Helping someone who may be struggling is hard, so it’s also important to remember to find joy in small moments and take time for yourself. If you’re feeling overwhelmed while caring or providing support for someone with depression, you’re not alone. Support groups can provide space to talk with others experiencing similar situations. You can also connect to a professional and get tips on avoiding burnout and caring for yourself as you care for someone with depression.
If you need addiction or mental health-related crisis support, or are worried about someone else, you can also call or text 988 (TTY 711) or visit the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline’s chat for free, confidential support with a trained crisis counselor. If you believe you or someone you love is in danger of harming themselves or others, call 911 or go to the nearest hospital.