Frequently Asked Questions
Depression 101:How to Help
I have a family member or friend with depression. What can I do to help?
Answered by:
Diplomate, American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology
The most important thing anyone can do for depressed people is to help them get appropriate diagnosis and treatment. The second most important thing is to offer emotional support. This involves understanding, patience, affection, and encouragement. Here are other things you can do for your loved one:
- Encourage them to visit their doctor, and ensure that they take any prescribed medication as directed.
- Invite the depressed person for walks, outings, to the movies, and other activities.
- Encourage participation in some activities that once gave pleasure, such as hobbies, sports, religious or cultural activities.
- Do not accuse the depressed person of faking illness or laziness or expect him or her to "snap out of it."
- Remember that they cannot help being affected by depression.
- Encourage them to talk and listen to what they are saying.
- Let them know that you care about them.
- Stay in contact with them. Send a card, give them a ring, and visit them in their home. Remember that depression can be a very isolating experience.
- Help them to feel good about themselves by praising daily achievements.
- Encourage them to help themselves by adopting self-help techniques.
- Find out about support services available to them and to you (self-help groups, out of hours emergency support, help lines, etc). Put them in touch with Depression Alliance.
Dr. Padder is a diplomate of the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He is currently medical director of two mental health clinics in Columbia, Maryland, and a consulting psychiatrist at Howard County General Hopsital, an affiliate of Johns Hopkins Medicine. Write to Dr. Padder at tanveerpadder@gmail.com.
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