How to Support a Friend Struggling with Anxiety or Depression
- Tamanique T.A. Byrd, LICSW
- Dec 23
- 2 min read
When someone we care about is struggling with anxiety or depression, it’s natural to want to help, but it can also feel hard to know what to say or do. You might worry about saying the wrong thing or feel unsure how to truly make a difference.
The truth is, your presence and compassion matter more than perfect words. Here are some meaningful ways to support a friend who may be navigating anxiety or depression:
💬 Listen Without Trying to “Fix” It
Sometimes the best thing you can offer is a safe space for your friend to talk openly. Try listening without interrupting, minimizing, or offering quick solutions. You might say:
“That sounds really hard. I’m here for you.”“You don’t have to go through this alone.”
Your role isn’t to fix their feelings, it’s to let them know they’re not facing them alone.
❤️ Validate Their Experience
Statements like “You have nothing to worry about” or “Just think positive” can unintentionally dismiss someone’s pain. Instead, validate their feelings:
“It makes sense that you’re feeling anxious with everything going on.”“I can see how that would feel really heavy.”
Validation helps reduce shame and shows empathy.
🕊 Offer Gentle, Practical Support
Small acts of care can make a big difference especially when depression or anxiety make daily tasks feel overwhelming. You could offer to:
Drop off a meal
Go for a walk together
Help with errands
Check in regularly via text or call
Avoid saying, “Let me know if you need anything.” Instead, offer something specific and manageable.
🌱 Encourage Professional Help (Without Pushing)
Therapy, medication, or other forms of support can be life-changing, but it’s important not to pressure your friend. You might say:
“Have you thought about talking to someone who can help you through this?”
“If you ever want to look for a therapist, I can help you find one.”
Normalize getting help the same way we’d encourage a friend to see a doctor for physical pain.
🌙 Take Care of Yourself Too
Supporting someone who’s struggling can be emotionally heavy. Remember to set boundaries, take breaks, and seek your own support if needed. You can’t pour from an empty cup.
💛 Final Thought
You don’t need the perfect words or solutions to make an impact your compassion, patience, and steady presence already mean so much. Simply being there, listening, and reminding your friend that help and healing are possible can be the light they need to keep going.
If someone you care about is struggling and you’re unsure how to help, our team of therapists is here to provide guidance and support for both individuals and loved ones walking alongside them.
XOXO,
TB
Contact us today to see how we can work together.
Comments