When someone you care about is struggling with anxiety or depression, knowing how to help can feel overwhelming. You may notice changes in their mood, behavior, or daily routines and wonder what you can do to support them. You may also feel unsure about what to say, worry about making things worse, or feel helpless as you watch someone you love face challenges.
At Balance Point Wellness, we understand that mental health challenges affect not only the person experiencing them but also the people who care about them. Our team of experienced therapists and psychiatric providers works with children, teens, and adults throughout Maryland and Delaware, providing compassionate, personalized support for anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and other mental health concerns.
While you cannot “fix” someone’s mental health struggles, your support can make a meaningful difference. Learning how to recognize signs of anxiety and depression, start a supportive conversation, and encourage professional help can help your loved one feel understood and less alone.
Recognizing When Someone May Be Struggling
Everyone experiences stress, sadness, or difficult days. However, ongoing changes in thoughts, emotions, or behaviors may be signs that someone could benefit from additional support.
Signs of anxiety may include:
- Excessive worry or fear that feels difficult to control
- Constant feelings of stress or being overwhelmed
- Difficulty relaxing or feeling “on edge”
- Avoiding certain situations because of fear or anxiety
- Physical symptoms such as trouble sleeping, muscle tension, or a racing heart
Signs of depression may include:
- Persistent sadness, hopelessness, or feeling empty
- Losing interest in activities they once enjoyed
- Withdrawing from friends and family
- Changes in sleep or appetite
- Low energy or difficulty completing everyday tasks
- Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
Some people experiencing anxiety or depression may hide what they are going through. Paying attention to changes that seem unusual for your loved one can help you recognize when they may need support.
Start With a Compassionate Conversation
One of the most helpful things you can do is let your loved one know they are not alone. Starting a conversation does not require having all the answers. Often, simply showing that you care can create an opportunity for connection.
Choose a calm, private moment and approach the conversation with patience and compassion.
You might say:
- “I’ve noticed you haven’t seemed like yourself lately. How have you been feeling?”
- “I’m here if you want to talk. You don’t have to go through this alone.”
- “I care about you and want to support you.”
Try to listen without immediately offering solutions. Your loved one may need to feel heard and understood before they are ready to discuss next steps.
Avoid Minimizing Their Feelings
When someone is struggling with anxiety or depression, comments meant to encourage them can sometimes feel dismissive, even when they come from a place of love.
Try to avoid phrases like:
- “Just think positive.”
- “Everyone feels that way sometimes.”
- “You have so much to be grateful for.”
- “You just need to get out more.”
Instead, acknowledge their experience:
- “That sounds really difficult.”
- “I can understand why you’re feeling overwhelmed.”
- “Thank you for trusting me enough to share that.”
Validation does not mean you have to solve the problem—it means showing your loved one that their feelings matter.
Encourage Professional Support
Many people struggling with anxiety or depression hesitate to ask for help. They may feel embarrassed, unsure where to begin, or believe they should be able to manage their challenges on their own.
Remind them that seeking support is a sign of strength. A licensed mental health professional can help individuals better understand their symptoms, develop healthy coping strategies, and work toward improving their overall well-being.
Treatment options may include:
- Individual Therapy
- Medication Management
- Telehealth Services
- Couples Therapy
- Family Therapy
- Group Therapy
- Art Therapy
- School-Based Services
At Balance Point Wellness, our experienced therapists and psychiatric providers help children, teens, and adults navigate anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, and other mental health challenges.
Balance Point Wellness offers virtual therapy throughout Maryland and Delaware, allowing individuals to access support from the comfort of home. We also provide in-person therapy and medication management services at our Maryland locations in Hunt Valley, Overlea, Bel Air, Baltimore, and Salisbury.
Offer Support During the Process
Taking the first step toward mental health support can feel overwhelming. If your loved one is hesitant, you can offer practical encouragement, such as:
- Helping them research mental health providers
- Sitting with them while they schedule an appointment
- Offering encouragement before their first visit
- Checking in with them throughout the process
Small gestures of support can make seeking help feel less intimidating.
Take Care of Yourself Too
Supporting someone with anxiety or depression can be emotionally challenging. It is important to care for your own mental health while supporting someone else.
Remember to:
- Set healthy boundaries
- Make time for activities that recharge you
- Talk with trusted friends, family members, or a mental health professional if needed
- Recognize that you cannot carry the entire responsibility for someone else’s recovery
You can be a source of support while also taking care of your own well-being.
When to Seek Immediate Help
If your loved one talks about wanting to harm themselves, expresses hopelessness about living, or you are concerned about their immediate safety, seek help right away. Encourage them to contact emergency services or a crisis resource for immediate support.
You Don’t Have to Face Mental Health Challenges Alone
Supporting someone through anxiety or depression can feel overwhelming, but your compassion, patience, and willingness to listen can make a meaningful difference. Sometimes the most important thing you can do is remind someone that they are not alone and that help is available.
At Balance Point Wellness, we believe everyone deserves access to compassionate, personalized mental health care. Our therapists and psychiatric providers are here to support individuals and families through life’s challenges with convenient virtual services throughout Maryland and Delaware, as well as in-person care at our Maryland locations.
If you or someone you love is struggling with anxiety, depression, or another mental health concern, contact Balance Point Wellness today at 410-800-2169 or bpointwellness.com to learn more about therapy and medication management options. Intakes can typically be scheduled within 24 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if someone I love needs therapy?
If someone is experiencing ongoing changes in their mood, behavior, relationships, sleep, or daily functioning, they may benefit from speaking with a mental health professional. Therapy can provide a safe space to explore challenges and develop healthy coping strategies.
How do I encourage someone to go to therapy?
Start with compassion rather than pressure. Let your loved one know you care, share your concerns, and remind them that seeking support is a sign of strength. Offering to help them find a provider or schedule an appointment can make the process feel easier.
What should I say to someone who is depressed?
Focus on listening and showing support. Statements like “I’m here for you,” “You don’t have to go through this alone,” and “I care about you” can help someone feel supported and understood.
Can anxiety and depression be treated?
Yes. Anxiety and depression are common mental health conditions that can improve with appropriate support. Treatment may include therapy, medication management, lifestyle changes, or a combination of approaches based on each person’s individual needs.
Does Balance Point Wellness offer virtual therapy?
Yes. Balance Point Wellness offers virtual therapy throughout Maryland and Delaware. Virtual appointments provide convenient access to mental health support from the comfort of home.
Where does Balance Point Wellness provide in-person services?
Balance Point Wellness offers in-person therapy and medication management services at locations in Hunt Valley, Overlea, Bel Air, Baltimore, and Salisbury, Maryland.
How can I schedule an appointment at Balance Point Wellness?
To schedule an appointment, please call 410-800-2169 or visit bpointwellness.com. Intakes can typically be scheduled within 24 hours. Most insurance is accepted!