How to Help Someone Struggling with Depression: 5 Practical Ways to Show Support

Supporting a loved one with depression can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure what to say or do. In this episode of Giving Voice to Depression, guest Sam Dylan Finch—mental health advocate, writer, and suicide attempt survivor—shares five deeply practical, lived-experience-based ways anyone can step up and support someone in a mental health crisis.

These strategies go beyond “just being there” and highlight tangible, compassionate actions that can truly make a difference. From learning to listen more than you talk, to offering concrete help with daily tasks, and even creating a team approach to support, Sam’s insights provide a roadmap for how we can better show up for the people we care about.

If you’ve ever worried about saying the wrong thing—or wondered what “help” really looks like—this episode is for you.

Link to Sam's blog post with all 11 suggestions:
https://letsqueerthingsup.com/2018/08/24/11-important-ways-my-loved-ones-supported-me-during-a-mental-health-crisis/

Links to two previous episodes with ways to reach out:
1) https://www.buzzsprout.com/2032100/14697923
2)https://www.buzzsprout.com/2032100/14697981

Link to free Mental Health America screenings: https://screening.mhanational.org/screening-tools/

Primary Topics Covered:

• Why listening is more powerful than advice-giving
• Asking what someone needs instead of assuming
• Small, tangible gestures that make a big impact
• The importance of learning about depression (without relying on the person to explain)
• Taking a “team approach” to supporting someone in crisis

Timestamps:
 00:00 – Introduction and podcast mission
 01:30 – Why asking for help is hard when you’re struggling
 02:16 – Why loved ones must learn to “reach in”
 03:23 – Guest introduction: Sam Dylan Finch
 04:00 – Listening more than talking
 06:12 – Following the lead of someone struggling
 06:38 – Asking what’s needed instead of assuming
 08:19 – Practical help with daily tasks (groceries, dishes, errands)
 09:36 – Checking on basic needs: food, water, meds, sleep
 10:52 – Learning about mental health conditions independently
 11:33 – Why it shows respect when you take time to learn
 12:16 – Thoughtful, tangible gifts as reminders of care
 13:00 – Taking a team approach to support
 15:19 – Creating a list of backup support contacts
 16:16 – Crisis resources (988 in the U.S.)
 18:05 – Why loved ones must do some of the research and prep work
 20:12 – Asking direct questions: safety and suicidality
 21:31 – Offering support without waiting for an invitation
 22:33 – Closing reflections and takeaways

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