How to Help Someone with Depression: Practical Ways to Support a Loved One

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 shares 11 practical and compassionate ways his loved ones have helped him during mental health crises. From avoiding unsolicited advice to helping navigate the complex mental health system, Sam provides real-life examples of what genuine support looks like.

Hosts Terry and Dr. Anita Sanz also reflect on the importance of checking in—before, during, and even after someone seems better—and why keeping trust, showing up consistently, and offering nonjudgmental care can make the difference between hope and despair.

If you’ve ever wanted to know how to better support a friend, family member, or partner who is struggling with depression, this conversation is full of essential, real-world guidance.

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 unsolicited advice often does more harm than good
• Practical ways to help someone navigate the mental health system
• Balancing support and boundaries without creating feelings of abandonment
• The importance of consistent check-ins, even after someone “seems better”
• Language that fosters safety and trust during a mental health crisis

Timestamps:
 00:00 – Introduction to the episode and partnership with Recovery.com
 01:31 – Shifting from asking for support to offering support
 02:46 – Why unsolicited advice (like yoga or meditation) isn’t always helpful
 04:42 – The challenge of navigating the mental health system alone
 07:20 – How loved ones can advocate in medical and emergency settings
 08:31 – Building and keeping trust, even when you disagree with choices
 10:21 – Substance use, judgment, and safe conversations
 11:10 – Why checking in after someone seems better is essential
 12:33 – Balancing caregiver breaks with avoiding abandonment
 14:06 – Not waiting for someone to ask for help—how proactive check-ins save lives
 16:27 – The importance of follow-through and practical reminders
 20:31 – “I’m not here to judge you, I just want to keep you safe”
 21:59 – Why learning these skills makes the world more compassionate

Explore mental health and addiction treatment options at recovery.com
Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/
Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/