Founder
Dr. Roland Segal is a leading psychiatrist with extensive experience and is the Managing Partner and MD Psychiatrist at Legacy Recovery Center. After earning his medical degree from the University of Arizona, College of Medicine, he completed general psychiatry training at Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center in Phoenix, Arizona, and advanced his expertise through a forensic psychiatry fellowship at USC’s Keck School of Medicine.
With over a decade of diverse experience in clinical, administrative, and forensic psychiatry, Dr. Segal is double board-certified in General and Forensic Psychiatry. His previous roles include Chief Medical Officer at Valley Hospital in Phoenix, Arizona, and president of the Arizona Psychiatric Society. He has also served as the legislative committee chair and contributed to numerous state and national boards, committees, and organizations. Additionally, Dr. Segal teaches as a clinical assistant professor of psychiatry at the University of Arizona, College of Medicine, mentoring medical students and residents.
Dr. Segal acts as an expert psychiatry consultant for multiple superior and regional courts, including those in Maricopa and Yuma counties, Salt River, as well as city governments like Phoenix, Lake Havasu, and Mesa. He also consults for prominent organizations such as the United States Postal Service, Social Security Administration, Immigration Health Services, and the U.S. Departments of Justice and Homeland Security.
Guided by principles of objectivity, ethics, mindfulness, and cultural awareness, Dr. Segal remains dedicated to providing compassionate, inclusive psychiatric care, impacting lives across Arizona and beyond.
If you’ve ever asked yourself how to help someone with depression, you’re not alone. Watching someone you love struggle can leave you feeling powerless—but your presence, understanding, and support can truly make a difference. This guide will walk you through 10 compassionate, practical ways to support someone facing depression, using strategies that empower both you and your loved one.
1. Understand What Depression Really Is
Depression is more than just feeling sad. It’s a serious mental health condition that affects how people think, feel, and live their daily lives. It can interfere with work, relationships, physical health, and even the will to keep going. Many people with depression don’t recognize their symptoms or feel too ashamed to speak up.
Common symptoms may include:
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Persistent feelings of sadness or emptiness
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Loss of interest in hobbies or daily life
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Fatigue and low energy, even after resting
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Difficulty sleeping or oversleeping
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Changes in appetite or weight
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Feelings of hopelessness or guilt
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Physical aches or pains without a medical cause
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Thoughts of death or suicide
If you suspect someone is showing these signs, you can begin by learning more through our resource on depression and mental health support.
2. Start the Conversation Gently
Starting the conversation can feel scary—but it might be the very moment your loved one needs. When approached with compassion and patience, these talks can open the door to healing.
Try saying:
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“I’ve noticed you haven’t seemed yourself lately. I’m here if you want to talk.”
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“I might not fully understand what you’re feeling, but I want to be here for you.”
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“You don’t have to do this alone. What can I do to support you right now?”
If you’re unsure how gender may influence how symptoms present or how to tailor your approach, check out our post on how depression can differ between men and women.
3. Encourage Professional Support
While your support is powerful, clinical treatment is often necessary. Therapy, medication, and residential care can make a lasting difference.
If your loved one is hesitant, offer to help schedule an appointment or go with them to their first visit. It’s also helpful to share real options—like our holistic, individualized care at Legacy. For a deeper look at what recovery can truly look like, explore our guide on overcoming depression and finding hope.
4. Watch for Signs of a Crisis
Some symptoms require urgent action. If someone is talking about self-harm or suicide, or exhibiting signs like giving away belongings or suddenly withdrawing, take it seriously. According to the CDC, suicide remains a top public health concern (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2023).
In these moments:
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Stay with them or ensure they’re not alone
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Remove access to anything they could use to harm themselves
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Call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
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In an emergency, dial 911 immediately
Being prepared can be the difference between crisis and safety.
5. Create a Supportive Daily Environment
When depression makes everyday life feel overwhelming, small acts of care can make a world of difference.
Here’s how you can help create a safe, supportive environment:
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Cook a nourishing meal or help with household chores
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Invite them to low-pressure outings like a walk or a cozy movie night
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Offer help in structuring simple routines like regular sleep, meals, or gentle activity
These actions show them they don’t have to carry everything alone—and that support can exist without pressure.
6. Be Patient and Stay Present
Depression doesn’t disappear overnight. There will be ups and downs. One of the best ways to support someone is to stay steady and present, even when you’re unsure if it’s helping.
Let your loved one know: “I see you. I care. I’m not giving up on you.”
7. Take Care of Yourself, Too
Caring for someone with depression is emotional work. If you find yourself drained, overwhelmed, or feeling lost—you’re not alone either.
Consider creating healthy boundaries, seeking your own mental health support, or building your coping toolkit. You can start with our guide on practical coping skills for depression, which includes self-care strategies you can also share with your loved one.
8. Recognize Depression in Older Adults
Depression in older adults can sometimes go unnoticed. It often shows up differently than it does in younger people and may be mistaken for normal aging or physical illness. Common signs include:
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Neglected hygiene or poor nutrition
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Fatigue or sleep disturbances without a clear cause
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Withdrawal from social activities, visits, or phone calls
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Confusion or memory issues mistaken for cognitive decline
Older adults may also be less likely to talk openly about their emotional struggles. Supporting them may involve gently encouraging open conversations and working alongside healthcare providers or caregivers.
For more insights, see the National Institute of Mental Health’s resource on Older Adults and Mental Health.
9. Encourage Healthy Daily Habits
Small lifestyle changes can gently support mental wellness. Encouraging your loved one to make minor adjustments in their daily routine may help stabilize their mood.
Helpful habits include:
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Eating regular, balanced meals
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Light exercise like walking or stretching
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Keeping a consistent sleep routine
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Spending time in natural light
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Limiting screen time or social media exposure
You can even participate in some of these habits with them to help build a sense of connection and momentum.
10. Know When to Reach Out for Help
If you’ve tried supporting your loved one and they’re still struggling—or you’re worried they’re getting worse—it may be time for professional care. Legacy Recovery Center offers individualized treatment in a private, peaceful environment that supports real healing.
Whether your loved one is ready to start treatment or you simply want to learn more, contact us today. We’re here to support both of you—every step of the way.
Helpful Resources
References
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023). Suicide prevention: Fast facts. https://www.cdc.gov/suicide/index.html
National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Older adults and mental health. Retrieved April 16, 2025, from https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/older-adults-and-mental-health
National Institute of Mental Health. (n.d.). Depression: Overview and symptoms. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/depression
