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Simple Steps to Support Patients with Depression
October 2, 2025
Your job matters. You help people feel better in body and mind. Listening and caring help people feel safe and open up. Helping the mind feel better takes small steps and kindness. Use these ideas every day.
Put Care Into Action
- Use a tool like the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) every day to keep screening simple.
- Set a reminder to check in and follow up in four to eight months if the score is high.
- Act fast if you see signs of depression and help them get care within 30 days.
- Check in with patients between visits by phone or video.
Try These Tips
- Make tools easy to find so your team can use them.
- Automate reminders so you don’t miss a follow-up.
- Teach your team to spot depression early and act with care fast.
- Check records monthly to spot missed care.
Support Patients with Treatment
- Ask if they’re taking their depression medicine and having any problems.
- Keep an updated list of local help so your team can refer patients fast.
- Encourage patients to get moving—regular exercise can boost their mood.
- Take a minute to talk about healthy food to help body and mind.
Team care—screenings, check-ins, medicine, therapy, and healthy habits—helps patients feel supported. This team approach builds trust and supports recovery.