We always hear the phrase “You’re not alone” when talking about mental health conditions, like major depressive disorder. And it’s a common phrase because it’s absolutely true. Not only have more than 20 million U.S. adults experienced a depressive episode in the last year, but it’s likely that there are people in your life that can provide support during a time that can feel isolating. 

Even when you’re not alone, depression can make you feel like you are. In a room full of people, depression can still make you feel lonely and want to isolate yourself due to feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness.

But the truth is that there’s power in peer support. 

When you start your mental health journey, providers and counselors will often recommend that you turn to your support system to be by your side during depression episodes. But many people find the best support in others who are also trying to manage depression. That’s where support groups come in.

The what and why of depression support groups

There are support groups for nearly every type of mental health challenge that you can think of, including depression. They are often led by a peer with experience in the condition.

Whether you decide to start attending a support group as one of the first steps in your mental health journey, or you’re referred to one by your provider, they can provide you with many benefits that can help you manage depression, including:

• Feeling validation for your feelings
• Gaining perspective on situations that contribute to depression symptoms
• Opening up in a judgment-free environment

Depression support groups can take place in many different environments. Many mental health organizations, such as NAMI, have online and in-person support groups. There also may be groups facilitated by your local mental health providers.

How peer support can help you through depression

Managing depression is an extremely personal experience, and it’s not always easy to open up to others. But seeking support from others who are also going through the experience can lead to strong outcomes by:

• Motivating each other

When you’re experiencing overwhelming sadness, fatigue and low self-esteem, it’s not always easy to see the light at the end of the tunnel. But when your depression seems like a mountain that’s impossible to climb, it can make a difference to have someone there to keep pushing you to take the next step. 

Peer support means leaning on someone that can empathize with you and help you keep going when you’re doubting yourself. You can motivate each other, keep each other accountable for treatment and celebrate progress.

• Exchanging strategies 

When you’re trying to manage your depression, there are so many different coping mechanisms and emotional regulation strategies that you may try out. But it’s possible that the ones that will be the most effective for you are the ones that your peers have discovered.

Peer support often involves exchanging tips and insight. You’ll be able to learn about what has worked for others and consider trying the strategies yourself. Just be sure that when you’re pitching your own ideas to someone with depression, they are in the mindset to fully embrace them. Unwanted advice often leads to further negative emotions. 

• Reducing the stigma

The conversation around mental health has been gradually improving over the last couple of decades. Due to the admirable vulnerability of people online discussing their mental health challenges, and the increasing prioritization of mental health in workplaces and schools, it’s a topic that people are becoming more comfortable discussing.

Through peer support, you’re empowering others to open up and take control of their mental health. There’s no shame in it. You’re not “broken” and you didn’t do anything wrong. Depression is a condition that requires treatment and support. 

At Lightfully, we understand the impact that peer support can have on people with depression. That’s why we include group sessions as a significant part of programming in all four levels of care:

• Residential Treatment
• Partial Hospitalization Program 
• Intensive Outpatient Program
• Virtual Programs (vIOP and vPHP)

Along with hearing the stories of your peers during group sessions, our licensed clinical experts will be part of your support system to be by your side every step of the way.

Change is possible. When you’re ready to take the first step, reach out to our Admissions Concierge Team. We’ll take the next steps together, toward the fullest, brightest version of you.