How to Tell Your Family You Need Help with Depression

You do not have to tell the whole family at once. Choose one person you trust, explain things simply, and ask for one clear kind of help. They may worry because they care, but being specific will make them feel less helpless.

Choose one safe person

Pick the family member most likely to listen without blaming you or telling everyone. You could start with, “I need to tell you something personal, and I am not ready for the whole family to know yet.”

Keep your words simple

Do one thing — say exactly what you need:

• “I have been hurting badly inside, even though I try to look strong.”
• “I am not asking you to fix everything today.”
• “I need you to listen and help me find a mental-health professional.”
• “Can we talk somewhere private?”
• “Please do not tell everyone until we decide how.”

Give them a practical job

Families often panic when they do not know what to do. Tell them whether you need someone to sit with you, take over a chore, help arrange an appointment, or check on you each day.

If you might hurt yourself or cannot stay safe, tell someone in your home immediately and do not stay alone. You should not have to carry this by yourself.