How to Support a Loved One with Depression
According to the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), an estimated 21 million adults in the United States (about 8.3% of all U.S. adults) had at least one major depressive episode in 2021. For adolescents, about 5 million (20% of U.S. adolescents aged 12 to 17) had at least one major depressive episode in 2021.
Depression can affect anyone, and watching a loved one struggle with it can be challenging, concerning and at times, maybe even scary. While you can’t “fix” their depression, your support can make a significant difference in their journey to recovery.
Educate Yourself About Depression
Self-Knowledge is one of the most crucial things you can do to help your loved one who is struggling with depression. Even having just a basic understanding of depression can make a difference. Mental health still has a lot of stigma attached to it, even in 2026. Depression is a condition, not a weakness or something people can just “snap out of.” If it were that easy, wouldn’t they have done it already?
Active Listening and Empathy
In addition to learning about depression, practice listening to your loved one without judgement. Actively listen to them. That means giving them the time to speak without you trying to fix it or make things better. Let your loved one share their feelings without fear of criticism or dismissal. Sometimes, just having someone listen is a powerful support.
What about well-intended advice? We’ve all been there. Someone trying to help us gives unsolicited advice and we may get upset about it because that isn’t what we currently need. Phrases like “just think positive” or “cheer up” can feel invalidating. Instead, express empathy and understanding and always practice active listening.
Offer Helpful Assistance
Depression often leads to intense feelings of being overwhelmed, and your loved one might not have the energy to do the everyday tasks they normally do when they are not in a depressive state. Preparing meals, running errands or helping with chores can go a long way in assisting your loved ones at this difficult time.
Encouraging Professional Help
If they are not currently seeking professional help, you can gently suggest this but please know that this is up to them. Everyone operates on their own timeline. Some people may not be ready to have professional help, possibly due to stigma and or their own beliefs. Some cultures are not receptive to seeking mental heath help and this is something to also consider.
Supporting a loved one with depression isn’t always easy, but your compassion and understanding can be a lifeline. Small gestures, like checking in regularly or simply listening, can make a meaningful difference in their recovery. Remember, your support can help them feel less alone as they navigate their mental health journey.
If you or your loved one need additional professional support, please feel free to reach out to the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill or call us at The Behavioral Wellness Group. We would
be glad to help.
Erin Pawlak, MS, LPCC-S
Therapist and Adolescent IOP Director
The Behavioral Wellness Group
55A Sheridan Park Circle Bluffton SC 29910
8224 Mentor Ave #208 Mentor OH 44060
P: 843 278 0008 #307 F: 440 565 2349
P: 440 392 2222 #307 F: 440 565 2349
epawlak@behavioralwellnessgroup.com
www.behavioralwellnessgroup.comup.com