What are the worst things to say to someone who is depressed?
🚫 You’re choosing this.
🚫 Things could always be worse.
🚫 Look at all the good things you have in your life.
🚫 You think you have it bad…
🚫 Everything will be ok.
🚫 You don’t look depressed.
🚫 Don’t think about it.
🚫 I know how you feel.
🚫 Let it go.
🚫 The past is the past.
What are the best things to say to someone who is depressed?
❤️🩹 Do you want to talk about it? I’m here when you’re ready.
❤️🩹 How can I help you get through this?
❤️🩹 I noticed you seem sad/anxious/not yourself/ lately. I’m concerned and care about you.
❤️🩹 I am sorry you are feeling so bad. I am here for you.
❤️🩹 Can I keep you company today?
❤️🩹 What can I do to help you feel better?
❤️🩹 Would you like to go for a walk or get coffee with me today?
❤️🩹 Thank you for sharing this with me so that I can understand what you’re going through.
❤️🩹 You’re not alone. You’re important to me.
❤️🩹 I don’t know what to say, but I am here for you.
❤️🩹 Would you like me to help you find a professional to talk to?
It’s hard to find helpful words to say to someone who is feeling depressed. Don’t be afraid to say, “I am not sure what to say right now.”
Most importantly, stay mindful and choose your words carefully. There is no perfect thing to say to someone living with depression. Your words won’t cure them. But they can help. The words you use can make a big difference in helping vs harming.
