Depression is a serious mental health condition that affects emotions, thoughts and everyday functioning. The support of loved ones can play a key role in recovery, but many people do not know how to help in the right way. How should you talk, how can you show support, and what should you avoid so as not to make things worse? In this article you will find tips that will help you better understand depression and become a real source of support for someone who is experiencing it.

How to recognise depression in a loved one

Depression does not always look the same. It can show up as sadness and apathy, but also as irritability or frustration. The most common symptoms include:

  • A persistently low mood and lack of energy,
  • Loss of interest in former passions,
  • Sleep disturbances – difficulty falling asleep, frequent waking or excessive sleepiness,
  • Changes in appetite – loss of appetite or compulsive overeating,
  • Social withdrawal – avoiding contact with family and friends,
  • Negative thoughts about themselves and the future, and no belief that things will improve.

If you notice these symptoms in a loved one over a longer period, it is worth encouraging them to seek professional help.

How to support a person with depression

1. Be present and listen attentively

People with depression often feel alone in their struggle. Your presence and willingness to listen can help them feel safer.

  • Instead of giving advice, simply be there and listen.
  • Do not downplay the problem or judge your loved one's feelings.
  • Avoid phrases such as “pull yourself together” or “others have it worse” – depression is an illness, not a choice.

2. Support, but do not pressure

Encourage everyday activities, but do not force them. Even small things, such as a walk or a phone call, can help improve how someone feels.

  • Suggest going out for some fresh air together or watching a film.
  • Help with simple household tasks that may be hard for a person with depression to manage.

3. Help them find professional support

Depression requires support from specialists. A conversation with a psychologist or psychiatrist can help determine the best method of treatment.

  • ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) helps people learn to accept difficult emotions and act in line with their own values.
  • SFBT (Solution-Focused Brief Therapy) focuses on the client's strengths and on finding effective solutions to problems.
  • In some cases, pharmacological treatment may be necessary.

Ask your loved one whether they would like to look for a suitable therapist together. You can also help arrange the first appointment or find online therapy.

4. Look after your own boundaries

Helping someone with depression can be exhausting. It is important that you take care of yourself too.

  • Do not take on all the responsibility for your loved one's condition.
  • If you feel overwhelmed, talk to someone you trust or seek help from a specialist.
  • Make time for rest and recovery.

When is immediate intervention necessary?

If a loved one talks about suicidal thoughts or behaves in a way that may indicate a risk of self-harm, do not ignore it.

  • Ask directly whether they are thinking of harming themselves.
  • Contact a psychiatrist or psychologist.
  • If necessary, call for medical help or ring a helpline:
    In Poland, there are nationwide helplines for people in mental health crisis: a round-the-clock line on 800 70 2222 (Support Centre for Adults in Mental Health Crisis) and 116 123 (Crisis Helpline for adults). Children and young people can call 116 111 (Helpline for Children and Young People), which also operates around the clock. All of the numbers listed are free of charge.

Supporting a person with depression requires empathy, patience and openness. Remember that your role is above all to be present and to encourage them to seek professional help, not to solve the problem for them. Depression is an illness that can be treated – what matters is not leaving your loved one alone with their difficulties.

If someone you love is struggling with depression, remember that even the smallest gestures of support can mean a great deal. You are not alone – seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

This content is for information purposes only and does not replace an individual medical or psychological consultation.

Natalia Kostusiak, MA – psychologist
Natalia Kostusiak, MA • Psychologist
Author of psychoeducational articles that promote knowledge about mental health.