Knowing what to say to people going through depression can be tough, even if you’re really close to them.

You don’t have the cure and, chances are, you might not have the experience to offer any advice of value. Nine times out ten, people struggling with depression just need to know that if they want to talk, they can. But how to open up the convo?

1. ”Tell me how you’re feeling, I’ll probably understand how you feel more than you think.”
   
2. ”Equally if you don’t want to talk about it, I’m happy just to be there and provide embarrassing stories of our day to make you laugh.”
   
3. ”Even if it doesn’t seem that way right now, this feeling won’t last forever.”
   
4. ”Take your time, no-one is rushing you to feel better.”
5. ”I’m still here for you and I’m not going anywhere.”
6. ”Take pride in your small victories, because small victories lead to bigger ones. You got out of bed? Sometimes that deserves an inner self-five.”
7. ”You’re not crazy or weak.”
   

8. ”Some days you’ll have setbacks, but just know that tomorrow is a new day with new possibilities.”
9. ”Can I make a cup of tea?”
10. ”I am here for you.”
11. ”If you’d rather talk to someone professional and aren’t already, I can help you sort that out.”
12. ”I’ll come with you if you need support, even if it’s just to the supermarket.”
    
13. ”You are not alone in feeling like this.”
14. ”You’re not wrong for feeling the way you do and no one blames you for it.”
15. ”Depression is natural.”
16. ”The times when you’re unwell only matter if you want them to.”
17. ”What activity might help restore your equilibrium?”
    
18. ”This must be difficult.”
19. ”Just do the best you can because that’s enough.”
20. ”I understand that it’s outside of your control.”
21. ”Silence.”  – Listening is one of the greatest things anyone can do in times of crisis – you don’t have to have anything winning or helpful to say. Your ears are enough.