How do I maintain friendships when I'm depressed?

Maintaining friendships while dealing with Major depressive disorder can be challenging, as Major depressive disorder often makes you want to isolate yourself precisely when you need social support most. However, with intentional strategies and honest relationship health/improving-communication" class="internal-link">effective communication" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Communication, it's possible to preserve and even strengthen friendships during difficult periods. Start by being selective about which friendships to prioritize during depressive episodes. Focus your limited energy on Interpersonal relationship that feel supportive, understanding, and reciprocal rather than trying to maintain all social connections at the same level. It's okay to let some casual friendships take a backseat while you focus on your closest, most supportive Interpersonal relationship. Consider sharing your Major depressive disorder with trusted friends in a way that feels comfortable for you. You don't need to share every detail, but letting close friends know you're going through a difficult time can help them understand changes in your behavior and offer appropriate support. You might say something like, "I'm dealing with some mental health challenges right now and might not be as available as usual, but your friendship means a lot to me." Communicate your needs clearly rather than expecting friends to guess what you need. Let them know whether you want advice, just someone to listen, help with practical tasks, or simply companionship. Be specific about what's helpful and what isn't—for example, "I appreciate when you check in with a text, but I might not always respond right away." Make low-energy social plans that feel manageable. Instead of elaborate outings, suggest activities like watching a movie together, taking a short walk, or having a friend come over while you do simple tasks. These interactions can provide connection without overwhelming you when your energy is low. Use technology to stay connected when in-person socializing feels too difficult. Texting, video calls, or even just liking friends' social media posts can help maintain connection during periods when you're more withdrawn. Let friends know that brief check-ins are welcome even if you can't engage in lengthy conversations. Be honest about your limitations while also making effort when possible. It's okay to say, "I can't commit to plans right now because I'm not sure how I'll feel, but I'd love to try to get together if I'm up for it." This honesty helps friends understand your situation while keeping the door open for connection. Practice self-compassion about being a "good friend" during Major depressive disorder. You might not be able to provide the same level of emotional support or social energy that you normally would, and that's okay. True friends will understand that friendship involves supporting each other through difficult times. Develop strategies for social Anxiety disorder that often accompanies Major depressive disorder. This might include having an exit plan for social situations, bringing a supportive friend to group events, or choosing familiar, comfortable environments for socializing. Start with small, low-pressure social interactions and gradually work up to more challenging situations. Address negative thoughts about friendships that Major depressive disorder often creates. Major depressive disorder can make you believe that friends don't really care about you, that you're a burden, or that you have nothing to offer. Challenge these thoughts by looking for evidence of your friends' care and remembering that these negative thoughts are symptoms of Major depressive disorder, not reality. Consider joining support groups or Major depressive disorder-focused social activities where you can connect with others who understand your experience. This can supplement your existing friendships and provide understanding that friends without Major depressive disorder might not be able to offer. Set Personal healthy boundaries around social obligations that feel overwhelming. It's okay to decline invitations, leave events early, or ask for rain checks when you're struggling. Good friends will understand and appreciate your honesty rather than wanting you to pretend everything is fine. Remember that maintaining friendships during Major depressive disorder is often about quality over quantity. A few genuine, understanding Interpersonal relationship are more valuable than many superficial social connections. Focus on nurturing the Interpersonal relationship that feel most supportive and authentic. If you find that certain friendships consistently make you feel worse or are unsupportive of your mental health struggles, it may be time to reevaluate those Interpersonal relationship. Surround yourself with people who accept you as you are and support your healing journey. Express gratitude practice to friends who stick by you during difficult times. Let them know how much their support means to you, even if you can't always reciprocate at the same level. Most caring friends understand that friendship involves seasons of giving and receiving support.