What to Say to Someone Who is Depressed?

Being a conservative person, what to say to someone who is depressed is always a tough situation for me. I felt awkward at first, so I tried to be poetic and thoughtful. It was a wrong idea though! After that bad situation, I understood that it has to be something related to acceptance and solidarity. Try not to use the terms like “worry”, “distress”, trouble” or “concern” etc.

If you really don’t know what to say to someone who is depressed, just simply let them know that you are there for them always. Additionally, do not try to threaten, blame or accuse them. Just simply make them feel your presence!

Loneliness is the most common attribute of depression. So, just try to be there, even if they are not ready to talk. Give them time and try to make them happy by your presence.

What to Say to Someone Who is Depressed?

Refer to the below-mentioned statements to what to say to someone who has depression :

“I will be there for you”

This is the most commonly used phrase for what to say to someone who has depression. Try to empathize because might be you never experienced the feeling of isolation and overwhelm. So try to show empathy!

Let your loved one know that you are always there in all upside downs.

“I Care”

“I care” is easy to say but try to say it empathetically! Therefore, try to touch their hand or hug and let them know that you actually care.

The important point is to reach out to your friend or loved one and let them know that they actually matter.

“Do you want to talk?”

A person experiencing the symptoms of depression may not be comfortable talking about the bad experience. Therefore, it is better to ask them gently, if they are ready to talk or not.

Remember that “communication is the key”, but do not try to use terms like “worry” or “concern”. Usage of such words might make them feel more depressed.

Calm Sage recommends you to be prepared with few questions like:

• Can I help you with cleaning?
• Can we go shopping together?
• Would you like to have some company for a while?
• Would you like to go for a walk?
• Can we go to a cafe together?

If they agree to these activities with you, try to initiate a healthy conversation. Try to enlighten them with positivity.

“Let’s consult with a doctor”

We can’t ignore the fact that treatment of depression is very essential for recovering from the symptoms of depression. Do not make your friend or loved one feel ashamed of their situations instead try to support them. Ask about their doctor’s appointment and join them throughout the routine checkups.

In case, they have not seen a doctor yet, encourage them!

“I understand”

Being empathetic is the only solution to let your friend or loved one know that you really understand their situation. It is actually helpful for your loved one to know this (if you really do).

“It’s okay to feel this way”

Maybe your friend’s situation seems minor, try not to judge or come up with solutions without putting your toes into their shoes.

Try to explain to them that you are sorry and kindly state “It’s okay to feel this way” and self-acceptance is the only key towards positivity.

“You are strong”

People with depression always deal with a feeling of weakness and a character flaw. Depression is caused by imbalances of chemicals in the brain which doesn’t mean that they are weak.

Reassure them that they are strong, and they will surely win this battle!

Takeaway! 

Keep supporting! You’re doing a great job. Communication is the key to beat depression.

More power to you! Do not forget to follow Calm Sage on all social media platforms.

Let’s radiate positivity together!

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