Watching someone you love struggle is painful, and most people freeze because they fear saying the wrong thing. Some ground rules from the clinic:

Listen more than you advise. 'That sounds really hard, I'm here' beats every motivational speech. Avoid 'others have it worse' and 'just think positive' — they add shame, not strength.

Make help concrete. Instead of 'let me know if you need anything', try 'I'm bringing dinner Thursday' or 'I'll drive you to the appointment'. Depression makes asking almost impossible.

Encourage professional help gently, without ultimatums. Offer to help book or to come along. Coming to the first visit with a trusted person makes many patients far more likely to attend.

Take talk of self-harm seriously, every time. Ask directly — asking does not plant the idea; it opens the door. If there is immediate danger, do not leave them alone.

And care for yourself. Supporters burn out. Our family-therapy sessions exist for exactly this — you are allowed to get support too.