When people are depressed, they are not the only ones who suffer. Typically, many of those around a depressed person also struggle with the effects of his/her condition. Watching someone you care about fight depression can be frustrating and frightening. Remember, you can't take responsibility for someone else, and the decision to get help is up to the person with depression. But, there are things you can do.

Learn about depression - knowing about the condition will help you better understand what a depressed person is going through.

Do what you can to make sure that a person with depression gets medical care. Encourage him/her to stick with medication and/or therapy. Offer to go with him/her to appointments as support.

Be supportive and patient. Listen to what the depressed person has to say.

Without being pushy, encourage your friend or loved one to do the things s/he used to enjoy. See friends. Go to the movies. Take a walk.

Avoid burnout - helping a person with depression can be overwhelming and exhausting. Try to get other people involved, build a support network. Don't confuse the person you love with the illness. Depression isn't anyone's fault. It is not possible to simply snap out of it.

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