What to Say (and Not Say) to Someone Struggling With Depression

When someone you love is struggling with depression, knowing what to say can feel overwhelming. In this episode, we share real, heartfelt messages of support collected from our Giving Voice to Depression community — words that made a real difference to someone in crisis.

You’ll hear authentic, compassionate responses that show how powerful even a short message can be. We also discuss why validation matters, the healing role of empathy, and what types of comments to avoid.

Whether you’re supporting a friend, family member, or colleague — or need to hear these words yourself — this episode is a reminder that you are not alone, and your words can be a lifeline.

Primary Topics Covered:

• The importance of real, non-judgmental support for depression
• Examples of what to say to someone struggling (community messages)
• Why validation and empathy matter more than “fixing”
• The dangers of dismissive comments like “just snap out of it”
• Distraction as a healthy coping strategy during depressive episodes
• How support works both ways — helping others can help you too
• Building true community around mental health struggles

Timestamps:

00:00 Intro and setup: why this conversation matters
 02:30 Community messages of hope and support
 06:30 The role of distraction as a mental health tool
 09:30 Longer encouragements and reminders that depression lies
 13:20 Why lived experience makes support more powerful
 16:50 Support as a two-way connection: helping and being helped
 20:30 Community empathy: giving support even while struggling
 24:30 Why you don’t need perfect words to show up for someone
 27:30 Reflections on healing power of community stories
 30:30 Closing thoughts: a resource for listeners in dark moments

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Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/GivingVoiceToDepression/
Terry's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/givingvoicetodepression/