Social support is critical to the successful recovery of people suffering from depression, according to psychology authorities.The effects of a positive social structure in life a patient who has been diagnosed with depression can work to alleviate symptoms like feelings of isolation and help patients move forward in finding ways to receive care for their disorder.

According to PyschCentral, being a good friend to those in your life who are suffering from depression may not only be the right thing to do, but will actually help to them on the road to recovery. Depression, a common but serious mental disorder, is described by the National Institute for Mental Health (NIMH), as persistent feelings of sadness that interfere with your ability to go about daily life. Depression can interfere with a persons ability to work, and is a cause of pain for both the patient and often times those close to them.

The causes of depression are often multifaceted according to NIMH, and could stem from many sources including processes of the brain, a hereditary predisposition, or also a traumatic life event. The most common symptoms of depression are feelings of emptiness, guilt, worthlessness, and melancholy. Another common symptom is a tendency to withdraw from activities and outings and self isolate. This symptom is particularly hurtful because it detracts from a patient's ability to seek treatment and get the care they need.

Social support is critical in any aspect of a person's life. According to Erika Krull of PsychCentral, the way that social support contributes to helping a person with depression is by dismantling negative thought processes and by providing encouragement to seek treatment.