How to support someone with depression

Depression is not always easy to recognise, and people who are struggling may not show obvious signs. While you are not responsible for another person’s care, many people find themselves wondering how to talk to someone about depression and how they might offer support to a friend or family member.

What to say to someone with depression

Depression is far more common than many people realise. Recent UK data suggests that around one in five adults experience significant depressive symptoms, and around one in six people report receiving a diagnosis of depression at some point in their lives.

Depression is more than simply feeling sad. Many people describe depression as feeling numb, hopeless, or emotionally flat. Everyday tasks that once felt routine can become exhausting. Getting out of bed, having a shower, getting dressed, or brushing your teeth may feel like a huge effort, and on some days, accomplishing even one of these things can be all that feels possible.

When someone you love is in pain, it is natural to want to fix it. Much of that urge comes from not wanting them to suffer, but part of it can also come from our own discomfort. It is difficult to watch someone struggle without trying to make things better.

For many people living with depression, what they need most is someone who is willing to listen. You are unlikely to have the answer to their problems, so rather than offering advice, try to hear what they are saying without judgment. It is always OK to admit that you do not fully understand and simply let them know how much you care.

Positivity is important, provided that it isn’t toxic (toxic positivity is the use of phrases such as “just think positively” or “things could be worse”). Supportive positivity might sound like: “I know this is really hard right now. I’m here for you, and you don’t have to go through it alone.”

Your friend may struggle to find the motivation to get out and do things. Depression can become a vicious cycle, where people stop engaging in activities that once brought small moments of enjoyment. Spending time in nature and gentle movement can support mental well-being. You might invite your friend to join you for a walk in the countryside. If you are able, bringing some healthy food to share can also help, as cooking and preparing meals can feel overwhelming for some people living with depression.

How can you help someone with depression?

Depression can leave someone feeling completely drained of energy. When someone has used most of their energy just getting out of bed, everyday tasks and home admin can fall behind.

Practical help at home can make a big difference. Offering to help with tasks such as washing clothes, doing the dishes, or tidying up can ease some of the pressure they may feel. Helping to declutter can also make future tidying feel more manageable.

Your friend may even have the financial means to arrange help at home, but not the energy to organise it. If you sense this is the case, you could offer to help with finding or arranging support. It is important to remain mindful of judgment. If your friend feels comfortable with the current state of their home, an offer to find a cleaner may feel more like criticism than support.

Yoga is a gentle way to move the body while also supporting mental well-being. You might suggest finding a local class and inviting your friend to come along with you. It is important to remember that a common symptom of depression is a loss of motivation and interest, so your friend may not feel ready to engage with the idea straight away.

Depression can sometimes make people behave in ways that appear selfish from the outside. Internally, however, your friend may feel completely drained of energy and may believe they are bringing others down.

It can help to remind your friend how much you enjoy their company and why you value spending time with them. Explaining why you would like them to join you can be meaningful. Sometimes this means taking a moment to reflect on what you appreciate about the person and sharing that with them, which can become a positive experience for both of you.

Taking care of yourself first

Supporting someone with depression can take emotional energy, so it is important to take care of yourself as well. When someone you care about is struggling, you may find yourself carrying worry, frustration, or helplessness. Having a space where you can talk openly about these feelings is valuable.

Speaking with a therapist can provide a safe environment to offload and reflect. Some people find hypnotherapy is particularly helpful because it allows the mind and body to slow down and settle. During hypnosis, the nervous system can shift into a calmer state, which can help to reduce stress and mental fatigue. This can create the mental space needed to process emotions more clearly and regain a sense of balance.

Many people find that hypnotherapy helps them feel more rested, mentally refreshed, and better able to cope with the challenges in front of them. When you restore your own energy in this way, it becomes easier to maintain a positive and supportive mindset while also protecting your own well-being.

References

Office for National Statistics. (2025). Public opinions and social trends, Great Britain: Personal well-being and mental health.
https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/wellbeing/bulletins/publicopinionsandsocialtrendsgreatbritain

NHS Digital. (2024). Adult Psychiatric Morbidity Survey: Survey of mental health and wellbeing, England.
https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/publications/statistical/adult-psychiatric-morbidity-survey

Our Future Health. (2025). Mental health statistics in the UK.
https://ourfuturehealth.org.uk