

This normalizes the emotions that your friend may be going through at the moment. “I know things are difficult right now, but I have confidence in you.”Ī vote of confidence can go a long way to improve someone’s self-esteem, especially when they’re depressed and seem to have a lack of motivation. Allow the person dealing with the loss to decide whether they need help though, and let them tell you what they need. If you’re more of a fixer or action oriented, then this may be a good way of offering up your services. Just be sure to listen without directing or trying to fix anything unless that’s specifically asked for. This allows them to decide whether or not they want to open up to you, and offers up the space to do so. It can be comforting just to know someone else understands some of what you’re going through. If you know someone who is exhibiting signs of depression after a job loss, this phrase communicates that you recognize the gravity of the situation and the loss. Sometimes, all that is needed is your presence, not your words. Physical touch, a hug, or holding someone’s hand can be a comforting gesture if you have that type of relationship with that person. Silence can be a powerful tool and something that acknowledges the weight of a situation without adding to it. This can help someone feel able to open up, and it comes off as an understanding way of being present with someone.

This helps someone know that you are actively trying to see them and hear them. “Can you help me understand how you’re feeling?”

It communicates that you are rooting for them. This approach acknowledges that words alone cannot always do justice to the situation. Here’s another one to say to someone who has just lost someone. “I wish I had the right words to say, but just know that I care about you.” Just be sure to follow through if they do seek support. The second part offers up support in a nonobligatory way, allowing them to choose whether or not to accept your help without pressure. It allows the moment to be about them and their needs instead of relating it back to your own understanding or perspective. This approach doesn’t assume that you know what they’re feeling. This is a helpful thing to say to someone who lost a loved one. “I can’t imagine how you feel, but I’m here for you if you need me.” Here are 21 things to say to someone who is depressed: 1. Sheila Dowd, Rush University Medical Center Be present in the moment with them and try not to focus on what you should say to them or how you can help them.” – Dr. 1,2,3 It can be hard to know what to say sometimes, but try to stick with supportive words vs. It’s also important to communicate non-judgemental support.
#AM I HAVING A DEPRESSIVE EPISODE HOW TO#
If you know someone with depression, understanding a bit about how depression symptoms affect people and how to treat depression can be helpful.
