How do I help someone that won't seek help...

[hpttobb]

A very close family member is really struggling with depression due to numerous factors.
He will not take tablets or go to counselling, he believes he should be strong enough to get through it without help. It's really affecting him and I just really want to help him and I don't know what to do.

Has anyone got any advice?

This is a common problem and sometimes they have to hit the bottom before they will seek help. Be there for them and try not to chide them if it happens. Remind them that no one walks on a broken leg and likewise you shouldn't struggle on with depression when help is out there.

Perhaps you can offer some practical help so he feels supported and valued. Advising people on how they should treat themselves can come across the wrong way and could distance him further even if you are meaning well.

Point out to him, kindly, that "strength" has nothing to do with it, and if he broke his leg he wouldn't even think of trying to get through it without help. Mental health is no different from physical health.