• Be a good listener. Let your loved one know that you are there for them and that you want to listen to what they have to say. Don’t judge them or try to fix their problems. Just listen and offer your support.
• Encourage them to seek professional help. Depression is a medical illness that requires professional treatment. Encourage your loved one to see a doctor or therapist. You can help them make an appointment and go with them to their first few sessions.
• Be patient and understanding. Depression can be a long and difficult journey. Be patient with your loved one and understand that they may not always be able to do the things they used to do.
• Help them take care of themselves. This may include helping them with basic tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and taking medication. It may also mean encouraging them to get regular exercise and eat a healthy diet.
• Remind them of their worth. Depression can make people feel worthless and hopeless. Remind your loved one of all the things they have to offer the world. Tell them how much you care about them and how much they mean to you.
• Don’t give up. It may take time for your loved one to get better. Don’t give up on them, even if they seem to be giving up on themselves. Keep offering your support and encouragement.

Here are some additional tips for supporting someone with depression:

• Don’t take it personally. Depression is not your fault. Don’t try to make your loved one feel guilty for being depressed.
• Set realistic expectations. It may take time for your loved one to feel better. Don’t expect them to snap out of it overnight.
• Take care of yourself. It can be draining to support someone with depression. Make sure you are taking care of your own mental and emotional health.

If you are concerned about a friend or family member who may be experiencing depression, it is important to reach out for help. You can talk to them about your concerns, encourage them to seek professional help, or offer to go with them to their doctor’s appointment. You can also call a mental health hotline or visit a website for more information and resources.

Here are some resources that can help:

• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255
• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
• gov: https://www.mentalhealth.gov/
• NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness): https://www.nami.org/

It is important to remember that you are not alone. There are many people who care about you and want to help. If you are struggling with depression, please reach out for help. There is hope for recovery.