Though you cannot cure someone of depression, you can help your loved ones stick with their treatment plan by offering to chip in or simply reminding them they have people supporting them.

People living with depression may have difficulty scheduling or finding mental health appointments on their own, so you could offer to arrange them and accompany them if desired.

1. Listen.

As tempting as it can be to rush in and be there for someone who’s depressed, doing so may actually harm your own mental wellbeing if taken too far. Achieve balance by finding appropriate boundaries.

Encourage them to take steps for self-care such as eating healthily and getting enough rest, as well as planning social outings with friends. Furthermore, remind them to seek assistance through family doctors, support groups or mental health specialists.

2. Encourage.

Encourage your loved one to seek treatment and remain committed to it, reminding them that depression is a real illness rather than some sign of weakness.

Someone experiencing depression might get angry when you express your worries; that’s an understandable response to difficult emotions; they need your love and support no matter their reactions; the best thing you can do for them is listen.

3. Encourage Activity.

Everybody experiences tough days, but clinical depression can make even the simplest tasks nearly impossible to perform. Be sensitive to their needs and set appropriate boundaries.

Encourage them to engage in physical activity, such as exercising, gardening, or washing their car. According to studies, activities like these have been proven to help lift mood. Plus, many of these can be done at home!

4. Encourage Self-Care.

Depression saps energy, making it easy to become exhausted. Encourage your friend to set aside time for activities that feed his or her senses such as taking in fresh air, visiting nature or enjoying music or food.

Avoid downplaying their feelings as this could make them feel misunderstood or make you think that they’re not really sick. Instead, be a compassionate listener and show that you care.

5. Encourage Faith.

Encourage someone suffering from depression to participate in their religion if applicable and establish regular routines for eating, sleeping, exercise and self-care activities such as self massage. Furthermore, avoid making comments which stigmatize mental illness by making dismissive statements about symptoms or marginalizing mental illness itself.

Be mindful of establishing personal boundaries to prevent yourself from becoming overwhelmed by your involvement with someone’s life.

6. Encourage Getting Help.

Help your loved one manage depression more effectively by setting up schedules for meals, medications, social support, sleep and exercise.

Encourage them to seek professional help. Make appointments or accompany them on their initial visit. Also help them locate local support groups or counseling services.

7. Encourage Talking.

Remind them they don’t have to face this alone and encourage them to find a support group or seek expert care for depression.

Do not use language that stigmatizes mental illness or tells someone they should “cheer up”. Doing this may make them feel invalidated and discouraged, instead try meeting them where they are by encouraging positive activities that support recovery.

8. Encourage Support Groups.

Help your loved one locate local depression support groups – either in person or online – by attending introduction sessions to get acquainted with their format and focus.

Remind them that depression is treatable through medication and be gentle if they resist getting help or become angry with you. Make sure you set clear boundaries around their care while also taking time for yourself.

9. Encourage Exercise.

Depression may make exercise seem like a burdensome task, yet physical activity is vital for mental wellbeing. Encourage your loved one to find ways to get some physical activity.

Finding it hard to watch someone you care for battle depression can be emotionally taxing and difficult. Frustration, helplessness, anger, fear and guilt may arise but with support and encouragement you can help them get treatment that fits their individual needs.

10. Encourage Positive Reinforcement.

Avoid dismissing their symptoms or criticizing their emotions; rather, encourage them to live a healthier lifestyle such as eating well, getting enough restful sleep and exercise as well as seeking professional assistance if needed.

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Everyone feels down at times, but these feelings usually pass quickly. Depression is a serious mental health disorder that needs medical treatment – often through medication.