How to Support a Loved One Struggling with Depression
Supporting someone with depression can feel overwhelming, but your care and understanding can make a real difference in their recovery. Depression is not just “feeling sad” — it can affect sleep, appetite, work performance, relationships, and overall health. Dr. Prabhojit Mohanty emphasizes that early recognition, empathy, and practical support can help a loved one manage symptoms more effectively.
In this blog, we’ll explore how everyday challenges — from sleep disturbances to workplace stress — can impact depression, and how small lifestyle changes can support better mental health.
Understanding the Daily Struggles of Depression
Sleep Disturbance: The First Sign of Trouble
Many people with depression struggle with poor sleep quality — difficulty falling asleep, frequent waking, or oversleeping. This can lead to fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating during the day.
How to Help:
- Encourage good sleep hygiene: a consistent bedtime, limiting caffeine, and avoiding screens before bed.
- Suggest gentle activities before sleep, like reading or meditation, to calm the mind.
The Commute: A Hidden Stressor
Long commutes can add to mental strain. For someone with depression, crowded transport, traffic, and the sheer time spent commuting can worsen anxiety and fatigue.
How to Help:
- Explore shorter commute options, even if it means adjusting the job role or accepting slightly lower pay.
- Recommend listening to calming music or podcasts during the journey to reduce stress.
Workplace Deadlines and Overthinking
Deadlines, workplace competition, and constant multitasking can intensify feelings of being overwhelmed. Overthinking about tasks can consume mental energy, leading to procrastination and self-doubt.
How to Help:
- Suggest breaking down tasks into smaller steps.
- Practice breathing exercises during short breaks to reset the mind.
Appetite Changes and IBS
Depression often impacts appetite — some people eat more for comfort, while others lose interest in food entirely. Prolonged stress can also trigger Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), leading to stomach discomfort, bloating, or irregular bowel movements.
How to Help:
- Promote a balanced diet with easy-to-prepare, nutrient-rich meals.
- Encourage seeking medical advice for IBS symptoms and adopting a gut-friendly diet.
Bringing Work Home: The Cycle of Stress
Many individuals with depression can’t “switch off” after work. They continue thinking about pending tasks late into the night, fueling anxiety and preventing restful sleep.
How to Help:
- Set clear boundaries between work and home life.
- Use relaxation techniques like evening walks or light stretching to release tension.
Coping Mechanisms for Each Phase of the Day
Why Your Support Matters
Depression is not a sign of weakness — it’s a medical condition that requires patience, empathy, and sometimes professional help. By offering emotional support and practical solutions, you can help your loved one rebuild their sense of balance and hope.
If symptoms persist or worsen, encourage them to consult a mental health professional like Dr. Prabhojit Mohanty, who can guide them toward therapy, lifestyle adjustments, or medication if necessary.
FAQs on Supporting a Loved One with Depression
Look for changes in sleep, appetite, mood, work performance, and social withdrawal. A professional diagnosis is essential for proper treatment.
Lifestyle changes like exercise, healthy eating, and good sleep can help, but professional therapy or medication may also be needed.
Use empathetic language, avoid judgment, and listen actively. Let them know you care and are there to help.
Yes. Prolonged stress and depression can trigger physical symptoms, including IBS, headaches, and fatigue.
If symptoms last for more than two weeks, worsen, or lead to self-harm thoughts, seek professional help immediately.