Understanding Depression

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Depression: Supporting a family member or friend

When someone you care about has depression, your support can be a big help to them. Here's what you can do.

Encourage treatment

People with depression may not recognize or acknowledge that they're depressed. They may not be aware of signs and symptoms of depression, or they may feel too hopeless to address the issue. People with depression may think that how they feel is normal and not the result of a mental health condition. All too often, people feel ashamed about their depression and mistakenly believe they should be able to overcome it with willpower alone. But depression seldom gets better without treatment and may get worse. Help the person you care about recognize the symptoms of depression and get treatment.

• Talk to the person about what you've noticed and why you're concerned.
• Explain that depression is a medical condition, not a personal flaw or weakness — and that it usually gets better with treatment.
• Suggest that the person see a professional — a medical doctor or a mental health provider such as a licensed counselor or psychologist.
• Offer to help prepare a list of questions for the person to discuss in an initial appointment with a doctor or mental health provider.
• Express your willingness to help by setting up appointments, going with the person to appointments and attending family therapy sessions.

If your loved one's illness is severe or potentially life-threatening, contact a doctor, a hospital or emergency medical services yourself.

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