For family & friends
How can I talk to someone with depression?
IQWiG describes attentive listening, respect and caution with quick advice. People have different needs, so general suggestions are not a fixed script for a conversation. [1]
General information for adults. Not medical or psychotherapeutic advice; not a substitute for examination, diagnosis or treatment.
Sources & editorial status
- IQWiG · Strategies for family and friends ↗
Patient information about supporting someone and looking after yourself. General suggestions require consideration of individual circumstances.
Compiled from an existing article: 31 October 2026. Source comparison in the article: 29 October 2026. Prepared with AI assistance; independent medical review is pending. Editorial compilation; independent medical expert review has not taken place.
Editorial responsibility: Mario V.W.B.R. Obst. Known limitations and the use of each source are explained alongside the reference. A source-comparison date is not the publication date of the original source.