Offline or online? It makes all the difference.

I think listening to them and showing you care.. advise.. but don't judge.. caring really is the key. Depression comes in all different waves and forms so it's them not you.. knowing that you're the supportive one will help.. and when he or she is happier their memory of how wonderful and compassionate you've been will never be forgotten 💚

From my own personal experience (as the one with the depression and anxiety), just having someone be THERE physically or not is HUGE. This is especially true for depression. I could sit in silence and just listen to somebody talk about anything, because I'm not in the mood to talk. But being left alone kills me. I deal with it, but it hurts.

For anxiety, mostly just being aware of the anxiety coping tactics we would learn in therapy, because when an anxiety/panic attack hits, that's the first thing I forget (how to think, about anything else). It goes beyond "just breathe." It's more like the five-four-three-two-one or something similar, proven tactics used in therapy.

I can relate, as I struggled with anxiety and depression, off and on, for many years.

I can't speak for everyone, as we're all different, but I think there were many times when I just needed someone to listen and be there for me. So many people were full of advice, or wanted to try to tell me what I was really thinking or feeling. This was very frustrating and just added to the stress I was already dealing with.

That isn't to say that some sensible advice isn't sometimes helpful, but sometimes people really just need to be heard, and they often need to find certain answers on their own. The most helpful people I talked to were the ones who listened without interrupting, and who knew what questions to ask.

And, of course, let them know that you care. And if they're really getting discouraged or down on themselves, remind them of their good qualities, try to give them hope and encouragement, and show them lots of love.

This may not work for everyone, especially someone who is severely depressed and possibly suicidal, but that's what I would try to do.

Best of luck!

When I’m depressed the only thing I want is to know someone cares about me. Not with words but in actions. They can’t fix anything for me.

just listen. assure them that ur there for them and actually do it without complaining or acting put off. if they are so depressed they can’t move at least force a change of scenery, lay them in bed then on the couch or to another room so they can do something.... i mean i can keep going...

You need to find ways to involve them in some tasks or activity .. that makes them hook up to you.. The problem is basically loneliness and they can't fend for themselves. If you are far away, make them come and see you, so they get to leave home and take a bus/ train trip .. or give them some assignments and pay for it, so they get motivated to perform and are occupied in their mind. Tap on their talents.

Id say its best to reassure that you need them. When i feel worthless or not needed i have someone to tell what i mean to them. how ive impacted them

Be willing to listen and knowing you can't fix it, esp when it comes to depression. :)

Let me let u in on a little secret ok? Ppl that don’t want to change and remain in their dilemma...will only change when they want to change period.

go see a psychologist
or.... talk to someone who gives great advice so you can make positive changes that will help you see a better outlook on your life

What you do will always be inadequate if your goal is fixing it. I dont want to be that guy, but I will be anyways; you cant fix it. What you can do is listen. Be a shoulder to cry on. Be somebody to go "yeah, that asshole!" with. It can't be your whole relationship, but you can only do what you can.