How To Help Someone With Depression: Practical Advice

Depression is a common but serious mental health condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Understanding the symptoms and knowing how to offer support can make a significant difference in the lives of those struggling with this condition. 

In this article, we will provide practical advice on how to help someone with depression, covering the symptoms, treatment plans and the importance of compassionate listening.

What Is Depression?

Depression, also known as major depressive disorder, is a common mental health condition characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness and a lack of interest or pleasure in daily activities. It goes beyond occasional feelings of sadness or mood swings.

Depression can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender or background. It can cause significant distress to those experiencing it, interfering with their ability to enjoy life and carry out their day-to-day responsibilities.

Causes of Depression

The causes of depression vary and may include:

• Genetic factors: A family history of depression may predispose one to this condition
• Biochemical factors: Chemical imbalances in the brain may increase the likelihood of developing depression
• Environmental factors: The environment one grows up in may increase the likelihood of developing depression
• Psychological factors: Stressful life events, trauma and chronic illnesses that are difficult to cope with may also contribute to the onset of depression

Symptoms of Depression

There are different types and classifications of depressions, which means that symptoms may vary based on the specific condition one is diagnosed with. Furthermore, depression can be tricky to spot, as the person dealing with it may make efforts to conceal symptoms. In general, however, depression manifests as both emotional, behavioral and physical symptoms.

Emotional symptoms of depression

• Persistent sadness or low mood
• Feelings of hopelessness or worthlessness
• Loss of interest in activities that one brought joy
• Increased irritability or frustration
• Difficulty concentrating or making decisions

Behavioral symptoms of depression

• Social withdrawal
• Reduced productivity
• Neglecting personal hygiene
• Substance abuse
• Increased risky behaviors

Physical symptoms of depression

• Changes in appetite or weight
• Sleep disturbances (such as insomnia or excessive sleeping)
• Fatigue or lack of energy (sluggishness)
• Physical aches and pains without a clear cause

How to Help Someone with Depression

Helping someone with depression involves a combination of empathy, practical support and encouraging professional treatment.

Notice the signs

As previously mentioned, spotting the symptoms of depression can be challenging. Pay close attention to your loved one. Does their behavior seem any different? Have you noticed a difference in their mood or appearance? Did they recently go through a difficult or traumatic event that could cause emotional distress?

By taking this first step, you may be able to identify the often subtle signs that a loved one is dealing with depression.

Listen and respect their boundaries

Broaching the topic of depression can be difficult, uncomfortable and painful.

The important thing here is that you let your loved one know that you are there to lend a compassionate ear. Let the person know that you are there for them without judgment.

It’s also important to respect the person’s boundaries. If they do not wish to talk about their mental health, do not attempt to force a conversation. By respecting their wishes, you can establish yourself as a trustworthy and respectful support system.

Encourage professional help

Dealing with any mental health condition on one’s own is incredibly difficult, and this is especially true for depression.

If you believe that your loved one is struggling with depression, encourage them to seek professional help, such as a therapist or a structured mental health program. Seeking professional help will help your loved one gain access to the support, coping mechanisms and, at times, medication that they need to improve their mental well-being.

Practical Steps to Support Someone with Depression

The above steps offer initial guidance, but there are also practical ways you can step in to support your loved one. While the steps below may seem small, they can truly make a difference in your loved one’s life as they navigate their mental health journey.

Offer practical assistance

Struggling with depression can make it difficult for the person to carry out their day-to-day tasks, which may seem either unimportant or overwhelming.

Offering to help with daily tasks, such as cooking, running errands together or assisting with household chores, can help your loved one maintain a sense of normalcy and stability in their lives. It can also show them that you truly care for them and make these tasks seem less daunting.

Encourage healthy habits

Similarly, people with depression often struggle with maintaining healthy habits, which may include eating well, getting exercise or otherwise taking care of their physical health.

Encourage the person to engage in healthy habits such as regular exercise, balanced nutrition and adequate sleep. Offer to engage in these activities together, as this may be more appealing to the person than doing these things alone.

In time, these habits can have a positive impact on mental health and strengthen your bond.

Promote social interaction

Social isolation can worsen depression.

Encourage the person to stay connected with friends and family, even if it’s through phone calls or virtual meetings.

Be patient and understanding

Most importantly, be patient and understanding with your loved one.

Mental health recovery, especially where depression is involved, can be a slow and complicated process. Some days may be easier than others. For example, one day your loved one may be happy to cook a healthy meal together, while on others they may want to do nothing else but be by themselves.

Just remember, your efforts are worth it and your progress is not lost because of one bad day.

Self-Care is Important Too

While being there to support a loved one struggling with depression is important, you should also remember to take care of your own mental health as well. Supporting someone with depression can be emotionally taxing, leading to burnout.

Practicing self-care comes in many shapes and forms. Some people may choose to take time for themselves, engaging in activities they enjoy. Others may look into professional support services, and others still may implement mindfulness practices into their day-to-day lives.

No matter how you choose to practice self-care, it’s important to take active steps in taking care of yourself. This enables you to maintain your emotional well-being while also supporting your loved one.

Help Is Available at Sierra Vista Hospital

Helping someone with depression requires empathy, understanding and time. By recognizing the symptoms and providing practical and emotional support, you can make a positive impact on the life of someone struggling with depression.

If you believe your loved one is struggling with depression, it’s important to seek our professional mental health services.

Sierra Vista Hospital, located in Sacramento, California, is here to help. We provide inpatient and outpatient psychiatric services to adults and adolescents seeking improved mental well-being. Our individualized treatment plans aim to meet each person’s needs and challenges, no matter where they are in their mental health journey.

Learn more about how we can help by giving us a call at 916-273-4300 or get in contact with us by using this form.