How to support someone with depression - Anxiety and Depre...

Anxiety and Depression Support

87,593 members82,274 posts

How to support someone with depression

KSunshyne profile image
5 Replies

Hello. I'm here because I have a boyfriend who has depression and I don't know how to deal or help him or what to do. He started being short and distance with me for like 2 weeks. I got anxious because I felt a shift in the relationship. Last week, he told me that he was struggling for a couple of weeks. He told me that he loved me but needed some time to get ahold of the thoughts that are constantly running through is brain. I really know what any of that means. I am trying to give him space in hopes that he'll find help and get things together, but I also don't know how to support him or how much is enough space or not enough or too much. I don't want to make this about me, because I realize he's going through something that I don't understand, but I want to know how to be there and to let him know I'm here without burdening him or his process.

Written by
KSunshyne profile image
KSunshyne
To view profiles and participate in discussions please or .
Read more about...
5 Replies

Hi there. What a nice thing to do! I can tell that you really care for him. My suggestion would be to let him know that you are there for him, but not to push the issue. I like knowing that I have someone to talk to if I need it, but I don’t like being pressured because that makes me feel trapped.

Blueruth profile image
Blueruth

I think you did a good job. He knows you are there. Maybe say "hey" every week or so. If he does ask for specific help from you I suggest being vigilant about your own boundaries. Self care is equally important in a situation like this.

Mikam1967 profile image
Mikam1967

You are doing an awesome job for wanting to help him through this. I would definitely be happy to have someone there for me, and I wish I did the first time I discovered I had depression. Even if we push others away, for me, when I was alone, I wished so much to have someone to talk to. I didn't want to go to the doctors, but my parents took me because my mom wasn't happy where I was. Medications at least help keep things in check most of the time. You definitely have such a kind heart. I will keep you in my prayers. Sending hope and encouragement.

Felix0225 profile image
Felix0225

I am in a similar situation so I understand where you're coming from. My boyfriend distancing himself from me used to make me think I was doing something wrong. I've found that by giving him his space when he needs it, but also letting him know I'm here for him in messages sometimes really helped. In the meantime I read up on depression and also how it can effect those around the person suffering. It really helped me see how he's feeling and understand much better now. Hope that helps.

designguy profile image
designguy

You might also offer to help him get help/find a therapist if he wants one. Sometimes depressed/anxious people feel somewhat paralyzed and can't focus or concentrate to take care of themselves. Don't push it but just offer.

You may also like...

How to Support Girlfriend with Depression/Anxiety

\\"what do you want and need from me?\\" Her response is \\"don't ask me that. It puts too much...

How to help someone that is withdrawn during severe depression

healing or getting help and I also want him to know we care and we are thinking of him . We live 20...

How do I support my depressed husband?

sometimes I just avoid conversations with him because I don’t want to fight. He’s a kind soul,...

Looking for support and someone to talk to

out help on multiple occasions but have never really followed through. The only person who knows...

Supporting someone with Depressio n

Family I really need your help in assisting my husband who is refusing to seek help for his...