Ways to Support Someone with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, or Mood Disorders

 

Suggested Version:
I understand that with funding cuts, long waiting lists, and difficulty accessing appointments, it can feel overwhelming to support someone with ADHD, anxiety, depression, or other mood-related conditions. These challenges affect both professionals and families. But support doesn't always have to come through formal services. I want to highlight how people, whether professionals, parents, carers, family members, or friends, can still play a vital role. Small acts of patience, listening without judgment, checking in regularly, and simply being there can make a huge difference in someone’s life. Support starts with understanding, not qualifications.

Supporting Someone with ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, or Mood Disorders

Whether you're a parent, carer, friend, or professional, you don’t need to have all the answers—you just need to be there. Support starts with understanding, patience, and small, everyday actions that show someone they matter.

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🧡 For Parents and Carers

·         Listen first, fix later – Let them talk without jumping in with solutions.

·         Keep routines – Structure brings calm, especially for those with ADHD.

·         Stay patient – Emotional outbursts or shutdowns are often signs of overwhelm.

·         Encourage gently – Focus on effort, not perfection.

·         Learn together – Share what you're learning and invite them to share too.

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🏠 For Family Members

·         Stay in touch – A simple message like “I’m here if you need me” goes a long way.

·         Respect space – Don’t take cancelled plans or silence personally.

·         Be a helper – Offer to go to appointments or assist with paperwork.

·         Help practically – Meals, transport, or errands can ease their daily stress.

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🤝 For Friends

·         Keep inviting them – Even if they often say no, it shows you care.

·         Be flexible – Last-minute changes may be about mental health, not a lack of interest.

·         Hold space – Sometimes they just need to vent without advice.

·         Celebrate the little things – A small win for them could be a huge step.

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🎓 For Professionals

·         Communicate clearly and kindly – Keep it simple, and don’t assume they remember everything.

·         Watch for overload – Offer quiet spaces and mental breaks when needed.

·         Listen to their voice – Ask what works for them—they are the experts on themselves.

·         Use a trauma-informed approach – Past experiences may shape current behavior.

·         Work with families – They often know what helps best at home and beyond.