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Family & cultureClinical handoutPrint · PDF · Word

Supporting someone with depression

For family and friends — what helps, what to avoid, and how to care without fixing.

When to use: Give to family members when client consents to psychoeducation.

For family and friends — what helps, what to avoid, and how to care without fixing. Use the worksheet in session or as homework. Preview the layout on the right — tap it or choose View full preview below for the complete on-screen version.

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You cannot cure depression — you can reduce isolation and shame.

Helpful

  • ☐Listen without fixing every time
  • ☐Offer specific help (meal, appointment ride)
  • ☐Encourage professional care without force
  • ☐Notice improvement, not only symptoms

Avoid

  • ☐“Just think positive” / comparison to others
  • ☐Threats or guilt about family reputation
  • ☐Sharing their story without permission

One sentence you could say

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Disclaimer: For professional use in your practice only. Not emergency care. Not legal or medical advice. Customize templates for your jurisdiction and ethics code. You may use with clients; do not resell or republish as your own product without permission.