Supporting Your Loved One With Depression: Tips From a Therapist

With roughly one-third of the Indian population coping with depression, it is likely that someone in your life may be diagnosed with this mental health condition. Watching your loved one deal with the symptoms of depression is not easy, and while you may want to reach out, knowing what to do can be tough.

Before you learn how to support someone with depression, learning a little more about this condition can help. 

Also read: Signs That You May Have High-Functioning Depression

What is Depression?

Although treatable, depression is a serious condition that affects many aspects of an individual's life. From school and work to one's relationship with loved ones, depression can cause noticeable changes in one's life. For some, depression can look like a constant feeling of sadness or hopelessness, while for others, it can manifest as a lack of interest in daily activities. 

Before you can support your loved one in their journey, it is important to recognise some common signs of depression:

• Not engaging in activities with friends or family: Depression can make individuals lose interest in their daily activities; one sign that your loved one may be dealing with depression is when they do not seem to go out or engage in activities the way they used to.

• Not talking to friends or family as much: Busy schedules can keep people from staying in touch, but when your loved one does not respond for days, weeks, or months, it's best to check up on them.

• Not sleeping as usual or keeping up with daily routines: While pulling an all-nighter or two to get work done may not be unusual, when they don't sleep enough, or sleep for long hours, for weeks, it may be a cause of concern. Besides their unusual sleeping pattern, it is essential to keep an eye out for signs that they are not keeping up with their daily hygiene routines. 

• Getting more emotional than usual: They are either more irritable than usual or seem sad or upset most of the time.

No matter what an individual's symptoms are, it is difficult to manage on a day-to-day basis. Hence, seeking professional help is crucial. 

Also read: How Can Sustained Low Self-Esteem Lead to Depression?

How can you Support your Loved one with Depression?

Depression can be an isolating condition, where individuals withdraw from social activities and their loved ones. Hence, support from others can go a long way in helping your loved one feel a little less alone.

While symptoms of depression improve with professional help, it can take some time. Often, exploring various treatment options may be necessary before your loved one can find out which approach works for them. 

So, what can you do to make your loved one feel supported in their journey with depression?

We're here to share some therapist-recommended tips that can help. 

Start the conversation

Mental health conditions are often seen as taboo topics that are rarely discussed among friends and families. The first step in showing your support can be to let your loved one know that you feel concerned and encourage them to speak about their feelings. 

When talking about your concerns, adopt an encouraging and supportive tone so that your loved one does not feel that you are criticising their behaviour. Keep in mind that while your loved one may appreciate a listening ear, they may not be looking for advice on what they should do.

Help them find professional support

Sometimes, though your loved one may not feel like their usual self, they may not know they are dealing with depression. Or, they may need some support to seek professional help.

When talking to your loved one about your concerns, present them with the idea of seeking professional support in a supportive and non-judgmental manner. If possible, you can encourage or direct them to verified and informative resources to help them learn more about their condition and know that help is available.

Encourage them to stick with therapy

When seeking professional help, individuals often expect to feel better immediately, but often, this is not the case. Treatment can be effective, but it takes some time to see results and feel better.

Sometimes, your loved one can feel discouraged when they do not see instant results or feel too drained to attend therapy sessions. It is important to keep encouraging them on their journey. The best way to know how you can support your loved one in keeping up with their sessions is to simply ask. Some may prefer getting little reminders on how therapy can help, while others may like it if you accompany them to their appointment.

Offer help with daily chores

Depression can be draining, making one feel that their energy has been zapped out of them. Often, this means that individuals are not able to keep up with their daily chores and routines, such as laundry or buying groceries.

Keep in mind that while they may appreciate your help, sometimes even making decisions can seem overwhelming. Instead of a general "Let me know if you need help", being more specific can be helpful. Try asking questions like "What do you need the most help with today?" or "Would you like some help with picking up groceries today?"

Take time for yourself

While you may want to support your loved one as much as you can, it is vital to take time out for yourself, too. Rushing to help your loved one may be tempting, but know when to draw clear boundaries. Convey to your loved one that while you want to be there for them as much as possible, you will need to take some time to focus on yourself as well.

Practise self-care routines and spend time doing things you enjoy. While supporting your loved one can bring joy, it can also get exhausting. Remember to focus on your well-being, too.

Supporting your loved one through depression is not easy, but it can be rewarding. Don't hesitate to start a conversation when you feel concerned; show your loved ones that it is okay to talk about their mental well-being too. Encouraging your loved one to seek professional support and helping them stick to their treatment is crucial to help them begin their mental health journey. 

Also read: What Is The Difference Between Depression And Chronic Depression?

And while you can provide them with much-needed support by offering help with daily chores or lending a listening ear, it is also vital to take care of yourself. 

Depression is treatable, but your loved one may need additional support from those around them to find hope that things will get better. 

Source: 

1. Pioneer. (2022, June 2). 1 out of 3 in India suffers from depression. The Pioneer. https://www.dailypioneer.com/2022/state-editions/1-out-of-3-in-india-suffers-from-depression.html

2. Raypole, C. (2021, November 3). How to Help Someone with Depression. Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-help-a-depressed-friend#how-to-help

3. Smith, M., MA. (2023a). Helping Someone with Depression. HelpGuide.org. https://www.helpguide.org/articles/depression/helping-someone-with-depression.htm

4. Pogorelc, D. (2021, December 21). 6 Do’s and Don’ts for Supporting Someone Who Has Depression. Cleveland Clinic. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/6-dos-and-donts-for-supporting-someone-who-has-depression/

5. Depression: Supporting a family member or friend. (2023, April 5). Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/in-depth/depression/art-20045943