For family & friends
Why can depression affect family and friends too?
Depression can change relationships and shared daily life. People close to someone may feel unsure or under considerable strain themselves. Learning about depression can provide context, but cannot establish a diagnosis. [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.