Super Nice Things To Do For Someone With Depression

It’s difficult to help a loved one with depression. Especially, when you don’t know what to do. It can be hurtful seeing a friend or family member struggle throughout the day. At times you may want them to snap out of it, but trust me it is not as easy. Telling a loved one to “get over it” or “just do this” will not help the situation. This will cause them to become distant. Here are nice things to do for someone who has depression:

Prepare a nutritious meal – The eating habits of those with depression changes, and most of the time they don’t pick healthy meals. Food directly impacts how they feel and by eating the correct foods their mood will improve. (mood boosting foods)
Go for a walk around the block – Depressed individuals don’t produce enough vitamin D because of the lack of sun exposure. A couple of minutes outside can help them immensely.
Help them clean their room – Remember depression zaps people’s energy and cleaning can be impossible. A messy room will bring down the depressed person even more. Make it fun by putting on music or a funny movie while you help them clean.
Help with laundry – Chores are a hassle, so imagine how stressing it can be to those depressed. If you see their clothes piling up, then lend a hand with laundry.
Change their bed sheets – A depressed person spends lots of time in their room, especially laying in their bed. By changing their bed sheets to clean ones can make them feel better. Tip: Spray lavender oil on the sheets.
Use aromatherapy – There are many oils that help with relaxation, anxiety, and depression. These oils are lavender, chamomile, frankincense, rose, sandalwood, and patchouli, etc. Tip: use an oil diffuser to disperse the smell around the room or you can also use candles.
Prepare them a hot bath or shower – At times its difficult to maintain good hygiene when depressed. It may get so severe that days may pass by before their next shower. Tip: use essential oils in the shower or bath water to boost relaxation.
Write positive notes – A depressed individual can think destructively, and have a hard time seeing the good in each situation. You can help by putting sticky notes around the house with positive notes, to remind them they are cared for.
Create a funny video playlist – Laughter is a great tool and can help lighten the mood. Make a playlist with funny videos for them to see when they are feeling down.
Create an inspiring music playlist – Music has the power to heal and change people’s perception. Create a playlist with their favorite songs and add anything uplifting.
Open the window – Try to convince them do go outside for a while, but if they can’t then open the room window. Allow fresh air and the sunlight to come in.
Bring them flowers or gifts – Many depressed individuals feel unloved even after telling them you care. At times small details like flowers or their favorite candy bar can help them feel happy. It doesn’t have to be anything bought from the store, you can be creative and make them something.
Make sure they are drinking enough water – Depressed people can have a foggy memory and forget to drink water. Sometimes going to go to the kitchen is too much. So, bring them a cup of water or tea. Tip: Add fruits like strawberries to the water to make it delicious and help them get much needed nutrients.
Have a fun day out – Depression can become so overwhelming that the thought of leaving the house seems dreadful. Make it fun by taking a day to do things they enjoy. For example, going to the movies, or their favorite restaurant.
Have a fun day in – If leaving the house is too much for them, then do a fun indoor activity. For example, ordering pizza and watching a new movie on Netflix. The trick here is to do anything you know they will enjoy.
Become active in their recovery – Depression is a lonely road. Let them know you care and offer support. For example, offer to drive them to treatment. This is extremely helpful in the beginning when depression is severe.
Focus on small goals – Daily activities such as doing the dishes or getting out of bed is difficult. Things that come easily to you may not be to a depressed person. Make them feel good for achieving small things, this will empower them.

It is not easy to live with depression, but with love, care, and help from loved ones it can be easier. These tips aren’t meant to replace professional help. If your loved one is getting worse or doesn’t get better even after trying these tips then please ask for help. There is no shame in that. Depression is a difficult illness to understand, especially if you have never been through it. If that is the case then read about it. What do you think about these tips? Are there other things you do for your loved one? Let me know in the comment section below.

Suggested Reading:

Are you in a relationship with a depressed person? Feel free to read: Loving A Depressed Person: Here’s What You Need to Know

Do you have depression? You can also read: 10+ Things People with Depression Understand All Too Well

Did you know Psych2Go has a book about Mental Illness Recovery?

Check it out here: Mental Illness Recovery Book, “Something I truly enjoyed about this book is the simplicity and the variety of stories which are all focusing in one subject; mental illness. It’s amazing to see how this book connects each story to one another and to the reader. It provides a direct insight of living with mental illness and tips on how to overcome some disorders. If you feel lost, or if you want to help a friend or family member then this is the book for you.” -Carelyn