Depression is a common but serious mental illness that can lead to persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness, low energy, and a loss of interest in activities or hobbies. Many people with depression see improvements with help from a therapist, but if your friend was recently diagnosed, you might wonder how you can provide support. Here’s what you can do to help a friend with this condition.

How to Support a Friend With Depression

1. Avoid Blame or Criticism

Depression can negatively affect a person’s mood, energy levels, and memory, so it is important to avoid being overly harsh or critical. If your friend sometimes has trouble getting out of bed in the morning or forgets something you told them last week, remember that they are not uncaring. These incidents are common signs of depression. If daily tasks are starting to pile up, offer to help out with household chores or errands.

2. Let Them Know You Care

For people with depression, simply talking about their feelings with a caring friend could provide a source of comfort. However, many people find it challenging to discuss their experiences due to feelings of isolation. Speak up about the topics of mental illness and depression. If your friend sees that you are open-minded, they may feel more comfortable opening up to you. Let them know that you are there to listen when they feel ready to talk.

3. Encourage Them to Get Professional Help

Your loved one may hesitate to start therapy, especially if they've become accustomed to being alone. Reassure your friend that there is nothing wrong with seeking professional help. If the idea of selecting a therapist seems overwhelming to them, offer to check reviews and make a list of questions to ask before they make an appointment.

If your friend is ready to get professional support, reach out to White Spruce Counseling. Located in Rochester, NY, this compassionate team of experts is committed to giving patients the tools and resources they need to overcome life challenges. They specialize in mental health management, substance abuse counseling, and domestic violence counseling. Call (585) 424-2436 to schedule an appointment with a therapist, or visit them online to learn more about their mental health services.