Watching someone you love battle anxiety or depression can be one of the hardest things to experience. It’s painful to see them withdraw, struggle, or feel overwhelmed by emotions that seem impossible to shake. You want to help, but it’s not always clear what to do. Maybe you’ve tried offering encouragement, pointing out the positives, or just being present, yet nothing seems to break through. The good news? There are real, tangible ways to support them—resources that go beyond surface-level advice and actually provide hope, healing, and a path forward.
And if we’re talking about real healing, we have to start with the ultimate truth—the one source that never fails.
The Bible: The Ultimate Source of Healing and Hope
If you’re looking for the single most powerful resource to help a loved one who struggles with anxiety or depression, open the Bible. God’s Word is not just a book—it’s living, active, and sharper than any double-edged sword (Hebrews 4:12). It speaks directly into the deepest pains and struggles of the human heart, offering wisdom, comfort, and, most importantly, the truth about where real healing comes from.
Anxiety and depression are not new. Throughout Scripture, we see God’s people wrestle with overwhelming sorrow. King David, a man after God’s own heart, poured out his distress in the Psalms, crying, “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God” (Psalm 42:11). Elijah, after calling down fire from heaven, fled into the wilderness and asked God to take his life (1 Kings 19:4). Even Jesus Himself, in the garden of Gethsemane, was “overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death” (Matthew 26:38).
But what do these accounts show us? That mental and emotional suffering is not a sign of weakness or failure—it’s part of the human experience in a fallen world. And the answer is always the same: turn to God.
This is why faith based treatment programs for mental health or drug and alcohol addiction are so effective. Unlike secular approaches that focus solely on coping mechanisms, biblical programs address the root cause—spiritual brokenness. They point people back to Jesus, the One who said, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). These programs integrate clinical therapy with biblical truth, helping individuals not just manage symptoms, but experience real, lasting transformation.
"Loving Someone with Anxiety" by Kate N. Thieda
Understanding your partner’s anxiety can be challenging. In “Loving Someone with Anxiety,” licensed professional counselor Kate N. Thieda offers practical advice to help partners navigate this journey. The book emphasizes the importance of setting healthy boundaries, improving social skills and communication, and avoiding codependent behaviors. By implementing these strategies, couples can build a stronger, more supportive relationship.
"Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy" by David D. Burns
Dr. David D. Burns introduces readers to cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) techniques in “Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy.” This seminal work provides practical tools to help individuals identify and challenge negative thought patterns that contribute to depression. By understanding these cognitive distortions, your loved one can develop healthier thinking habits and improve their emotional well-being.
"The Noonday Demon: An Atlas of Depression" by Andrew Solomon
Andrew Solomon’s “The Noonday Demon” offers an in-depth exploration of depression, combining personal narrative with comprehensive research. The book delves into various aspects of the condition, including its cultural, biological, and political dimensions. This extensive work can provide both you and your loved one with a deeper understanding of depression and its far-reaching impacts.
"First, We Make the Beast Beautiful: A New Journey Through Anxiety" by Sarah Wilson
In this memoir, Sarah Wilson presents a personal and insightful exploration of living with anxiety. She challenges conventional approaches to managing the condition, advocating for acceptance and understanding. Wilson’s narrative encourages readers to view anxiety not as a burden but as a part of the human experience that can offer unique perspectives and strengths.
Final Thoughts
Supporting a loved one through anxiety or depression requires patience, empathy, and access to the right resources. By embracing faith-based guidance and educating yourself through reputable readings, you can provide meaningful support and help your loved one navigate their path to healing. Remember, your understanding and encouragement can make a significant difference in their journey toward recovery.
Cole Dyar is the Executive Director & co-founder of Neurish Wellness. He has been working in the behavioral health field in operational, clinical, organizational, and managerial capacities for thirteen years. He holds a degree from the University of California, Santa Cruz in sociology and is a Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LAADC) as recognized by CCAPP. Cole holds a Master of Science in Industrial/Organizational Psychology including: Organizational Leadership and Design, a Post-Masters in General Marriage and Family Therapy, and is currently a doctoral candidate in MFT with an emphasis in Systemic Administration & Entrepreneurship.