How to Support Someone with Depression: Recognize the Signs and Take Action

Colorado's Mental Health Crisis: You’re Not Alone

Colorado faces a growing mental health crisis, with rates of depression, anxiety, and suicide among the highest in the country. Knowing how to support someone with depression can make a significant difference in their recovery. If your loved one seems off or disconnected, recognizing the early signs of depression is the first step in helping them get the support they need.

How to Recognize the Signs of Depression

Depression can develop slowly, making it difficult to detect. Here are some common signs to look for in your loved one:

• Persistent sadness or irritability: They seem down or easily agitated for long periods.
• Loss of interest in activities: They stop participating in hobbies or socializing with friends.
• Fatigue and low energy: They feel tired or unmotivated, no matter how much rest they get.
• Changes in sleep patterns: Sleeping too much or struggling with insomnia.
• Difficulty focusing: They have trouble concentrating or making decisions.
• Feelings of hopelessness: Expressing that things will never improve or feeling worthless.

Recognizing these signs early can help you take meaningful action. Take our free quiz to begin exploring whether these signs and symptoms need professional intervention. 

How to Start a Conversation About Depression

Learning how to support someone with depression begins with open communication. It can feel overwhelming to know what to say, but small conversations make a big difference. Here’s how to start:

• Pick a private, comfortable space where your loved one feels safe.
• Use "I" statements to share your observations without judgment.
  Example: “I’ve noticed you’ve been feeling down, and I’m worried about you.”
• Listen with empathy and avoid offering immediate solutions.
• Ask how you can help, instead of assuming what they need.

For more detailed guidance, download our cheat sheet.

Stories of Hope: Recovery is Possible

When you’re supporting someone with depression, it can be hard to imagine things getting better. But recovery is possible.

Watch Patient Stories of Healing:

Danielle, a mother from Colorado, shares how professional help transformed her life—and her family’s. In the video, she explains how treatment gave her the tools to manage depression and brought joy back into their lives.

Megan, a student who has suffered from life long depression, paints the picture of the before and after treatment. She shares how getting high-quality depression help at Axis Integrated Mental Health changed her life.

Billie shares how her husband had to shoulder the burden of parenting and the impact her depression had on her family. Being able to get treatment allowed her to contribute to her family again and transform her relationships.

Hearing real stories of recovery reminds us that even in the darkest moments, hope exists—and help is available.

Advanced Treatments for Depression

Knowing how to support someone with depression also means exploring all available treatment options. Our clinic offers compassionate care and access to advanced treatments, including:

• Therapy and Psychiatry: Personalized care from licensed professionals.
• TMS (Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation): A non-invasive treatment for treatment-resistant depression.
• Ketamine Therapy: Fast-acting options for severe depression.
• Telehealth and In-Person Appointments: Flexible care options to meet busy schedules.

All treatments are covered by insurance, ensuring that care is accessible. Our ratecard can also be downloaded below.

How Nutrition Can Support Mental Health

Another way to support someone with depression is through small lifestyle changes. Nutrition plays a crucial role in brain health and emotional well-being. Studies in nutritional psychiatry show that foods rich in omega-3s, folate, and antioxidants can boost mood and reduce symptoms of depression.

Read more about how nutrition can complement traditional treatments.

Ready to Take the Next Step? We’re Here to Help.

If your loved one is showing signs of depression, you don’t have to navigate this alone. Our team offers compassionate care, advanced treatments, and a supportive environment. We’ll guide you every step of the way.

Schedule an intake appointment within 7 days or less. Or call our office at 720.400.7025.

Or download our guide on How to Support Someone with Depression.