The Coach's Toolkit
Essential cheat sheets, scripts, and guides for navigating challenges.
Communication Tips for Depression Support
What to say, what not to say, and how to stay connected.
The Golden Rule
Validate First, Fix Never.
Depression is not a problem to be solved with advice. Your job is to be present, not to fix.
Don't Say
- "Just try to think positive."
- "Other people have it worse."
- "You just need to get out more."
- "What do you have to be depressed about?"
- "Snap out of it."
Do Say
- "I can see this is really hard for you."
- "You don't have to go through this alone."
- "What would feel manageable today?"
- "I'm here. No pressure."
- "Would it help if I sat with you for a bit?"
The "Observe, Validate, Invite" Framework
OBSERVE
Name what you see without judgment.
"I noticed you've been staying in bed more this week."
VALIDATE
Acknowledge the difficulty.
"That sounds exhausting. Depression makes everything harder."
INVITE
Offer a small, low-pressure option.
"Would you be up for a 5-minute walk, or would you rather just sit together?"