How to help someone with depression

Feeling down or depressed from time to time is normal. But if these feelings last 2 weeks or more, or start to affect everyday life, this can be a sign of depression.

Depression can develop slowly. Someone who's depressed does not always realise or acknowledge that they're not feeling or behaving as they usually do.

Often it's a partner, family member or carer who first realises that help's needed. They may encourage their friend or relative to see a GP, or find some other source of support.

Signs that someone may be depressed

Depression has lots of possible symptoms.

You may notice that someone:

• has lost interest in doing things they normally enjoy
• seems to be feeling down or hopeless
• has slower speech and movements or is more fidgety and restless than usual
• feels tired or does not have much energy
• is often irritated or angry
• is overeating or has lost their appetite
• is sleeping more than usual or is not able to sleep
• has trouble concentrating on everyday things, such as watching TV or reading the paper
• has poor hygiene and is not looking after themselves or their home
• has become isolated from others

Find out more about symptoms of depression

Tips to help someone who seems down

• Let them know you care and are there to listen.
• Accept them as they are, without judging them.
• Gently encourage them to help themselves – for example, by staying physically active, eating a balanced diet and doing things they enjoy.
• Get information about the services available to them, such as an NHS talking therapy service or depression support groups in their area.
• Encourage them to talk to a GP.
• Stay in touch with them by messaging, phoning or meeting up. People who are depressed can become isolated and may find it difficult to leave their home.
• Try to be patient.
• Take care of yourself and your own mental health.

Read more about how friends and family can help someone with depression on the Mind website

When to get help urgently

If the person you're worried about needs urgent help for their mental health, you or they should contact a GP or NHS 111.

111 will tell you the right place to get help. You may be able to speak to a trained mental health professional over the phone.

You can also go to A&E or call 999 if:

• you're worried someone may harm themselves or others
• someone has harmed themselves or someone else
• someone is having hallucinations, is behaving unusually, or saying unusual things