How do I support a family member with depression?

Show up without fixing. Depression rarely lifts through advice; it responds to steady presence, listening without minimizing, and practical help with meals, chores and appointments that illness makes heavy.

Avoid the classics that wound: snap out of it, others have it worse, you have so much to be grateful for. Instead: I am here, this is an illness, treatment works, and I will help you get to the appointment.

Take any talk of death or self-harm seriously and seek urgent help rather than promising secrecy. And keep a line of care for yourself; supporters need support to last.