When someone we love is going through a hard season, it’s natural to focus on what they’re feeling. But depression rarely stays with one person. Like ripples spreading across water, it can gently reach everyone nearby: spouses, adult children, siblings, and close friends.
This October marks Depression Awareness Month, a meaningful time to look at a condition that is far more common than many people realize and far more treatable than many people believe.
According to the CDC’s latest national health survey, about 1 in 20 U.S. adults regularly experienced feelings of depression in 2025. 1 The encouraging news is that depression is treatable.
Picture two people on a seesaw. When things are balanced, both sides share the effort, and nobody has to push too hard. But when one person is carrying something heavy, the other naturally leans in to keep things level.
That leaning in is an act of love. Over time, though, it can become tiring. Caring for someone with depression works best when both sides of the seesaw get support, including the person doing the caring.
How You Can Help Someone You Love
- Start with a simple check-in. “I’ve noticed you seem a little down lately. How are you really doing?” can open a door.
- Listen more than you advise. Being heard is often more comforting than being fixed.
- Encourage a conversation with their doctor. Primary care providers can screen for depression and suggest next steps.
- Offer practical support. A ride to an appointment, a shared walk, or a standing phone call can mean a great deal.
- Care for yourself, too. Rest, time with friends, and your own support system help keep your side of the seesaw steady.
Caring for your whole self and the people who love you adds life to your years. As part of your overall wellness routine this fall, now is a great time to schedule your annual hearing check. Bring someone along and make it a moment to take care of each other.
1 Norris T, Bottoms-McClain L, Adjaye-Gbewonyo D. Early Release of Selected Estimates Based on Data From the 2025 National Health Interview Survey. National Center for Health Statistics, CDC. Released May 2026.