How can I help a loved one who is depressed?

It’s important to remember that a person with depression cannot simply "snap out of it." It is also important to know that he may not recognize his symptoms and may not want to get professional treatment.

If you think someone has depression, you can support him by helping him find a doctor or mental health professional and then helping him make an appointment. Even men who have trouble recognizing that they are depressed may agree to seek help for physical symptoms, such as feeling tired or run down. They may be willing to talk with their regular health professional about a new difficulty they are having at work or losing interest in doing things they usually enjoy. Talking with a primary care provider may be a good first step toward learning about and treating possible depression.

Other ways to help include:

Offering him support, understanding, patience, and encouragement
Listening carefully and talking with him
Never ignoring comments about suicide, and alerting his therapist or doctor
Helping him increase his level of physical and social activity by inviting him out for hikes, games, and other events. If he says, “no,” keep trying, but don't push him to take on too much too soon.
Encouraging him to report any concerns about medications to his health care provider
Ensuring that he gets to his doctor's appointments
Reminding him that with time and treatment, the depression will lift

How can I help myself if I am depressed?

than later can relieve symptoms quicker and reduce the length of time treatment is needed.

Other things that may help include:

Spending time with other people and talking with a friend or relative about your feelings
Increasing your level of physical activity. Regular exercise can help people with mild to moderate depression and may be one part of a treatment plan for those with severe depression. Talk with your health care professional about what kind of exercise is right for you.
Breaking up large tasks into small ones, and tackling what you can as you can. Don't try to do too many things at once
Delaying important decisions until you feel better. Discuss decisions with others who know you well.
Keeping stable daily routines. For example, eating and going to bed at the same time every day.
Avoiding alcohol

As you continue treatment, gradually you will start to feel better. Remember that if you are taking an antidepressant, it may take several weeks for it to start working. Try to do things that you used to enjoy before you had depression. Go easy on yourself.

Where can I go for help?

If you are unsure of where to go for help, ask your family doctor or health care provider. You can also find resources online including the NIMH website at or check with your insurance carrier to find someone who participates in your plan. Hospital doctors can help in an emergency.

What if I or someone I know is in crisis?

Men with depression are at risk for suicide. If you or someone you know is in crisis, get help quickly.

Call your doctor.

In many instances, a crisis can be avoided when friends or family members are involved in the treatment and can recognize crisis warning signs. Crisis warning signs are different for different people. One person may have more trouble sleeping and become more agitated. Another person may sleep more, stop eating, and focus on disturbing thoughts. Creating a plan that lists the loved one’s warning signs—those actions that usually occur before a crisis—and the health care provider’s contact information may help avoid a crisis.