02/03/2026
5 Ways To Support Someone with Depression
from the National Council for Mental Health Wellbeing blog post.
When you notice a friend, colleague or loved one struggling, it can be hard to know the best way to support them. Knowing how to recognize the signs that someone is experiencing a mental health challenge is the first step to helping.
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) describes depression as a mood disorder that affects more than 20 million people in the United States. A person who is depressed may display an unusually sad mood or not show interest in hobbies or activities that usually interest them. People experiencing depression may also experience changes in appetite or sleep, trouble concentrating and fatigue.
Common signs and symptoms of depression include:
Irritability or sudden mood swings.
Appearing more unkempt than usual.
Flat voice that doesn’t change in tone or speaking more softly than usual.
Frequently skipping meals.
Being easily moved to tears or having frequent crying spells.
Difficulty concentrating or completing tasks.
Mentioning sleep changes, like frequently remarking about being “tired” or “not sleeping well.”
Making comments about self-injury or su***de.
If you start to notice these signs and symptoms in a friend, loved one or colleague, they may be experiencing depression. However, it is important to remember that as friends, loved ones and Mental Health First Aiders, we do not diagnose mental health disorders for ourselves or others — that’s a job for a health care professional.
How To Help
The best ways to help someone with depression aren’t always obvious. Here are 5 things you can do to help:
Check in. Simply reaching out is an important first step. Starting a conversation can let them know that you care. Consider using phrases like these from the Mental Health First Aid curriculum to get started: “Would you like to talk?” “I’ve noticed you’ve been more quiet than usual and wondered if you are OK.”
Listen nonjudgmentally. Each person’s situation and needs are unique.
Respect their independence and listen to what they’re saying before you respond.
Respect boundaries. Depression can make social situations, tasks or activities feel hard or overwhelming. Honor the person’s needs and boundaries, and don’t pressure them into something they aren’t ready for. Support them at their pace.
Encourage self-care. Suggest simple self-care activities like short walks outside at lunchtime, stretching and drinking water. Also encourage them to reach out to others when they need the extra support — part of self-care is knowing when we can use a little help.
Help them find support. No one has all the answers. You might suggest resources like your workplace’s employee assistance program or informational websites about mental health.
If their feelings of sadness and hopelessness are persistent or severe, encourage them to talk with a mental health professional or help them make an appointment.
When someone you know seems to be living with depression, it can be as scary — for you and for them. Reaching out lets them know they aren’t alone. It’s one of the most important things you can do to help.
