How to support someone with depression
If someone close to you may be depressed, listen without judging, take what they say seriously, and encourage them to see a doctor. Avoid telling them to cheer up. If they talk about suicide, stay with them and get urgent help.
Last updated 2 November 2026
What helps
- Listen without rushing to fix things or judge.
- Say what you have noticed and that you are worried, in a calm and caring way.
- Encourage help. Offer to find a doctor, go with them to an appointment or sit with them during an online consultation.
- Keep in touch, even if they pull away, and be patient.
- Look after yourself too, and share the load with others.
What to avoid
- telling them to snap out of it or to think positive
- comparing their pain with someone else's
- treating depression as weakness or a character flaw
- pushing them to do too much too soon
Know the warning signs
Talk of death, hopelessness, giving away belongings or saying goodbye are warning signs. Ask directly if they are thinking of ending their life. Asking does not put the idea in their head.
If it is an emergency
Do not leave the person alone. Remove anything they could use to harm themselves if it is safe to do so, and get help straight away.
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call 112 or go to the nearest hospital. For free support at any hour, call Tele-MANAS on 14416.
How to start
- Call or message us. Reach us on +91 90352 54779 or WhatsApp. Tell us your language and a convenient time.
- Free pre-consultation call. Our team takes your history and prepares a report for your clinician, so you do not repeat yourself.
- Video session. You meet your allotted clinician online, from home or wherever you feel comfortable.
- Your plan. The clinician explains what they find and the next steps. You decide together.
Book your free pre-consultation call
Your privacy and confidentiality. What you share with Mindly Health stays between you and your care team. Your conversations, reports and messages are treated as confidential and shared only with the team members involved in your care, apart from the limited cases where the law requires it or someone's safety is at serious risk. Read our Privacy Policy and your rights under the Mental Healthcare Act.
Common questions
How can I tell if someone is depressed?
Look for low mood or loss of interest lasting more than two weeks, changes in sleep and appetite, low energy, and withdrawal from people.
What if they refuse help?
Stay patient, keep the door open and try again. You can offer to make the first call or join the first appointment.
Can depression be treated?
Yes. Talking therapy, medicine, or both help most people.
Related
- Depression
- Support someone who feels hopeless
- How families can support treatment
- Gambling disorder: signs and where to get help
- Forgetfulness or dementia? Signs to watch for
Sources
Mindly Health is not an emergency service. If someone is in immediate danger, call 112 or go to the nearest hospital. For free support at any hour, call Tele-MANAS on 14416.